Facial Massage Types
Facial massage is typically applied as part of a standard full-body massage treatment. The massage therapist will use different types of strokes to provide a sense of relaxation, invigorate the skin and stretch the connective tissue below the surface. There are certain massage specialties, like shiatsu and lymphatic drainage, that also work areas of the face. Though facial massage can be very relaxing, some clients are uncomfortable with the therapist touching their face. If you don't want the therapist to work this area, be sure to let him know. It should be no problem for him to adapt the session. Does this Spark an idea?
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Common Strokes
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Massage to the face is commonly executed without creams or oils. In a typical Swedish session, the therapist will focus on light, soothing touch. She may rub your temples with her fingers, stimulate your jaw by lightly pinching the skin, and caress the cheeks and forehead with smooth and flowing skin sweeps.
Facial Tapping
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Tapping, known as tapotement when applied during a massage, helps to bring energy to the face. The therapist will use all of her fingers to perform this stroke. She will lightly tap the surfaces of your face as if she is playing the piano. This stroke invigorates the skin through stimulation of the nervous system and by channeling blood to the area.
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Shiatsu Facial Massage
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Shiatsu is an Eastern massage discipline that focuses on the body's energetic flow. There are numerous pathways throughout the body that the therapist will stimulate with short, sweeping strokes. The therapist will also stimulate pressure points with his thumb and fingers. There are numerous energy pathways that cross the face. Pressure points are also located on the face and scalp, with a concentration around each eye socket. The therapist will work all of these points to balance the body's energy.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
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Lymphatic draining seeks to stimulate the lymph system and promote the removal of toxic substances from the body. According to the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals trade group, this modality features a very light touch and can be used on clients who are not healthy enough for standard massage. Lymphatic draining may use a light, sweeping motion on the under-eye area. A gentle finger sweep may also be performed around the chin and on the sides of the jaw.
Massage and Other Facial Treatments
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If you're going for a facial, mud mask or other spa treatment, the practitioner may provide a brief massage to your face. Using strokes adapted from standard Swedish massage, this brief application warms up the tissue and provides a sense of relaxation before other treatments begin.
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