How to Get a Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is a well-known technique in a varied, ancient healing art. Characterized by deep, smooth, stroking movements, as opposed to light trigger-point manipulation, Swedish massage feels fantastic and provides ongoing benefits. Get improved blood circulation and muscle tone, as well as decreased stress-related tension and soreness with a Swedish massage. This type of treatment may also be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of specific illnesses, such as migraines or TMJ disease.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Maximize the Benefits of Swedish Massage

1. Reduce caffeine in your diet on the day of your massage. Caffeine can cause muscle tension and reduce lymphatic effectiveness, both of which are counterintuitive to successful massage therapy.

2. Eat lightly prior to your Swedish massage treatment, both for the comfort of lying on your stomach and so your body can concentrate on the circulatory, rather than the digestive, system.

3. Take your time when you get up from the table after your treatment so you don't lose your balance and strain your relaxed muscles.

4. Drink water throughout the day after your session to detoxify and satisfy thirst due to increased circulation.

Enjoy Swedish Massage

5. Lie on the table face down beneath the sheet provided, with your face on a cushioned or donut-shaped face cradle. There may be a bolster pillow to slide under your ankles.

6. Relax and focus on breathing evenly and exhaling fully as your massage therapist works on your muscles with long, sweeping strokes and deep tissue manipulation. Your back, legs, shoulder and neck will be addressed.

7. Mention your preference when the therapist's hand or finger pressure is too light or too deep, and he will adjust it.

8. Turn over beneath the sheet when your therapist indicates that it's time to do so. He may remove the bolster and put a pillow under your neck.

9. Enjoy Swedish techniques on your hands and forearms, and expect to have more attention to your legs and neck. Many therapists like to end a session with massage of the facial tissue and ears, or a passive, full-body stretch.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a massage therapist through advertising, chiropractic offices or wellness centers. Your state's licensing board can also give you a list by location.
• A sheet drape is required by law for unclothed massages in states that license the practice.
• Patients with heart or epileptic conditions should consult a physician before they get a Swedish massage.
• You might feel lightheaded from deep breathing or increased circulation to the head after your massage. Postpone or be careful walking or driving.
• Don't make your massage therapist sick. If you're contagious with the cold or flu, reschedule your appointment.

[gvizbi]

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