What Happens During a Swedish Massage?
A Swedish massage comes to mind when you think of going to a therapist to receive a classic massage. During a massage session, a therapist works on most areas of your body. The process consists of four or five basic techniques using the hands, fingertips and knuckles to manipulate muscle tissues. A Swedish massage provides numerous benefits, including improving range of motion, soothing sore joints and muscles, and reducing stress.
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Effleurage Technique
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Effleurage is one of the primary techniques used during your full-body Swedish massage session. Effleurage, from the French word meaning "to touch lightly," consists of gently and evenly rubbing oils over your body using an open palm, according to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies. Massage therapists usually begin the massage with this move so as to lubricate the entire body and use it when transitioning between other techniques.
Petrissage Technique
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Petrissage consists of kneading and compressing to work deep into the muscle tissues. Massage therapists manipulate muscles using the hands, fingers and thumbs to penetrate the surface of the skin. The petrissage technique of a Swedish massage includes rolling, squeezing and adding pressure to the muscles to loosen them. The technique relaxes muscles and increases circulation, says the Everest College website.
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Tapotement Technique
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Massage therapists use the tapotement technique to tap muscles using the sides of their hands, their fingers and the palms of their hands. It's as if therapists are using their hand like drumsticks on your muscles, tapping at a speed of about four to 10 times a second, according to the Institute for Integrative Healthcare Studies. Tapotement also includes plucking muscles and cupping, which consists of covering part of the body with the palm of the hand and using the fingers to massage. This technique warms muscles and stimulates nerve tissue.
Vibration and Friction
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Vibration and friction work deep below the skin's surface when you get a Swedish massage. Vibration involves the therapists using hands or a vibration machine to shake the back and the limbs to promote circulation and muscle relaxation. Friction consists of using the knuckles, fists and palms of the hands in rapid circular motions to release the joint and knotted muscle fibers. Everest College says massage therapists use friction in short bursts to avoid inflammation.
Preparing for Swedish Massage
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Before you get a Swedish massage, drink water. Fluids soften your muscles during your massage treatment. According to Massage Therapy Indy, you should eat a regular meal so as not to get hungry during your session. You wear very little clothing because massage therapists work muscles all over the body. A pair of underwear and boxer short work best; massage therapists usually provide a sheet. Drink water after your Swedish massage to prevent dehydration.
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