How to Give a Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is designed to bring more oxygen to the blood, helping the body flush toxins from the muscles. It's commonly known as massage therapy, and is the most common type of professional massage. Even without training, you can give a friend or family member a Swedish massage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Scented oils
• Soft background music
• Candles
• A massage table or substitute
• A sheet for draping the body

The Strokes

1. Study the various strokes and practice them on a firm pillow. The effleurage is a gliding stroke that is done with the palms of the hand, the thumbs and sometimes the fingertips.

2. Try the petrissage stroke, which involves a kneading movement done with the hands, thumbs and sometimes the fingers.

3. Master the friction stroke done with the palms of hands, thumbs and occasionally the fingers applying a circular pressure.

4. Accomplish the vibration stroke which does just as the name indicates, vibrates the body.

5. Perfect the percussion movement. Most of us have seen a Swedish Massage therapist on television whacking the back of a client, this is the percussion movement.

6. Learn the passive and active movements or the bending and stretching of the body parts.

Preparing the Area

7. Convert a bed or other piece of furniture to a massage area, if you don't have a massage table. Provide a soft surface and some padding to cradle her head.

8. Gather body oils that are scented. Discuss which varieties add to relaxation. Find scents that are appealing to you as well as him.

9. Ask the recipient to disrobe and provide a sheet for him to cover himself with while on the table. The massage is more effective on bare skin, and the sheet allows for modesty so neither of you are uncomfortable.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that it must be comfortable not only for the recipient, but also for you. Make certain that the one you're massaging is not too low that it will cause back strain on you.

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