Swedish Massage
If Chinese massage is the root of all forms and types of massage, Swedish massage is definitely the foundation of Western massage. Evidences are apparent that this form of massage technique is the origin of other important massage therapies like aromatherapy, deep tissue and sports massages. The massage is designed to apply relaxation to the muscles through applying pressure. The strokes and movements of the massage are also along the blood flow, going back to the heart.
The original Swedish massage was developed and popularized in 1812 by University of Stockholm physiologist Henri Peter Ling, who was believed to have been awed by the Chinese massage techniques and benefits. The original form of Swedish massage is no difference from what it is today: gentle pressure is applied for the overall improvement of blood circulation. This gentle pressure also eases and relieves muscle tension and aches, brings about relaxation and improves flexibility of the body.
The basic purpose of Swedish massage is the increase of flow of oxygen within the blood and the elimination of toxins out of the muscles. Thus, the massage is usually applied to shorten duration of recovery from cases of muscular strain through flushing uric acid, lactic acid and other wastes of metabolism out of the muscles and the tissues. As far as modern and sophisticated medicine is concerned, the thrust of Swedish massage makes sense.
Other benefits of the Swedish form of massage include the stretching of tendons and ligaments to make them pliable and supple. The massage stimulates the nervous system and the skin by soothing the nerves. Swedish massage has been found and proven to reduce and eliminate stress both in the emotional and the physical levels. In fact, Swedish massage has been made an important component of the most effective and popular stress management programs. Medical uses are also imperative.
There are five basic movement techniques employed in the massage. Effleurage movements include gliding strokes using thumbs, palms and fingertips. Petri sage involves kneading movements using the hands and fingers. Friction comes from circular pressures using the palms, fingers and thumbs. Oscillatory movements create vibration, while percussion comes from the brisk tapping and hacking movements of the massage therapist.
The massage therapist usually uses oil for a smoother and more effective facilitation of smooth and long strokes all over the body of the massage receiver. Uniquely, Swedish massage advises covering the body of the massage receiver with a blanket, a technique popularly known as draping. Upon massage, the involving part of the body will be uncovered and will be covered again after the massage application. Other parts of the body will be uncovered upon application of the massage techniques.
