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Step 1
Use compression at any point during your regular Swedish massage to help relieve tension in a muscle. Always position your body so that you are about an arms-length from the table with your dominant leg in front of your non-dominant leg. These body positioning tips will allow you to lean into your client without stressing your back.
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Step 2
Press your entire palm into the tight muscle of your client. For emphasis you can place one hand on top of the the other, or simply place your hands side by side to reach a larger area. Keep your pressure firm and steady and ask your client to breath in deeply, pushing against your hands. On the exhale, you should feel the muscle release.
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Step 3
Combine compression and vibration during your Swedish massage when you come across a 'knot,' or firm ball of muscle that will not release. Remember that these "knots" are extremely sensitive and will not require much pressure. Place your hand in a fist with your thumb protruding and press your thumb into the "knot," resting your knuckles on the body. Ask your client to breath slowly and deeply as your vibrate your thumb, feeling the knot release under your finger.
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Step 4
End your massage using compression techniques to pick up the energy of your client after the massage. Using either the sides of your hands or cupped palms, use drumming motions up and down your clients back in a rhythmic pattern. These compression tips, also called tapotement, help to get the blood circulating again after the massage.
