relaxing swedish massage

The Technique

Swedish massage incorporates long strokes of light to medium pressure along the grain of the muscle. Kneading action may also be applied using the thumbs or palms of the hand.

The Benefits

Swedish massage provides many benefits including:

• Increased blood flow to fatigued muscles
• Reduced tension in muscles and connective tissue
• Release of toxin buildup in muscles
• Relaxation and calming of nervous system
• Stimulate blood flow to the skin

Conditions that Respond Well to Swedish Massage Therapy

While deep tissue massage works great for general muscle tensions and overall well-being, there a number of conditions that respond well to this technique:

• Tension
• Stress
• Fatigued Muscles
• Circulatory Deficiency

What to Expect

During a Swedish massage session, your therapist will use lighter strokes to loosen up the muscle. This technique works the entire body, from head to toe, relieving stress and promoting blood flow and toxin release.

The usual sequence of techniques are:

• Effleurage: gentle stroking with the palms, thumbs and/or fingertips
• Petrissage: kneading movements with the hands, thumbs and/or fingers
• Friction: circular pressures with the palms of hands, thumbs and/or fingers
• Vibration: oscillatory movements that shake or vibrate the body
• Hacking: light slaps or karate-style chops

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You should feel a calming effect come over your body as the session progresses. Some clients may even fall asleep. Don’t worry, you’ll still get all the benefits, it’s just your mind disconnecting for a bit of healing!