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Swedish Massage

The primary benefit of Swedish massage is relaxation. Practitioners say Swedish massage, and the variations that have grown out of it, can be beneficial in treating a wide range of physical and psychological conditions. Swedish massage is usually the first techniques that are taught in massage school. You can actually master the basics of Swedish massage easily and in no time at all. There are a few basic strokes that usually win everybody over....

Effleurage- this is a French word meaning touch lightly, effleurage gently acquaints your subject's body to the feeling of being touched and warms it up for later strokes. This is a long, gliding stroke. Run your hands along the length of the torso from the neck ot the base of the spine, for example, or from the shoulder all the way sown to the hand and fingertips.
Petrissage- With one or two hands, with two thumbs or with your thumb and finger, carefully "pick up" muscles and lift them away from the bones, then roll, wring and squeeze them.
Wringing- This stroke involves rubbing, in opposite directions, with full hands and palms. This and petrissage are a lot like kneading dough.
Friction- Using your thumb or fingertips, apply this deep, circular movement near joints and other bony areas such as the sides of the spine. Also use it on the "belly" of the muscle.

Apply all strokes to muscles and soft tissues only. Do not massage bones or sensitive organs.

No two massages are ever alike, nor should they be. Use your creativity!

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