Ever since the Swedish doctor Per Henrik Ling
invented the concept of Swedish massage sometime in the 1700s,
the world has never looked at relaxation the same way again. It
is not as if various forms of massage did not exist up to that
point - they did. However, nothing could come close to these
techniques, which were specifically formulated to detoxify body
tissues and boost the overall oxygen content in the blood.
How to do a swedish back massage:
What does Swedish Massage involve?
Swedish massage addresses the deeper muscles, manipulating
them against the underlying bones. The masseur's strokes tend
to follow the direction of the blood as it returns to the
heart, thereby enhancing the flow. The heart does not have to
work harder; in fact, Swedish massage assists it in its natural
functions. The stimulated tissues absorb extra oxygen,
enriching the blood. It is a revolutionary concept that helps
patients to recover from debilitating muscular ailments in
record time.
The body tends to build up deposits of extra waste products
during the metabolic cycle. While it is also equipped with a
pretty efficient waste disposal system, the stresses of a
modern lifestyle tend to limit its proper functioning. Muscles
tend to bunch up, trapping these wastes in a manner that
prevents their proper release. Muscles also contract
chronically because of inappropriate nervous responses. With
regular Swedish massage, both the musculoskeletal system and
the nervous system get a regular overhaul. This is why most
stress management programs include Swedish massage in their
repertoire.
What Techniques are Used?
A trained Swedish masseur employs various techniques while
working on a client. For instance, he or she will use flowing,
stroking motions in which the palms, fingertips and - where
deeper penetration is required - thumbs come into play. This
technique is called effleurage.
Kneading motions, known as petrissage, and circular
motions to apply friction to affected parts then complement
this. Body tissues are further stimulated with
percussion, or soft drumming with the fingertips or
sides of the hand. Along the way, various parts of the body are
bent and stretched to make tendons and connective tissue more
supple and conducive to blood flow.
The whole process is incredibly relaxing and extremely
therapeutic, but amateurs should not attempt it. A trained
Swedish masseur knows just how far to go, and such knowledge
cannot be replaced by plain enthusiasm. It is advisable to
contact a qualified and experienced Swedish masseur only
through a professional referral.
About the Author
Sharon Hopkins manages sites related to Massage Health Therapy which
explains Swedish massage in this article to detoxify
body tissues and boost blood oxygen supply. She also
writes for Aromatherapy, Yoga, and other health
related sites.
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