Of all types of massage techniques, what is known as Swedish massage is probably the most commonly known. Introduced by a Swedish physiologist named Henri Peter Ling at the University of Stockholm in 1812, Swedish massage is used to improve circulation and ease muscle aches and tension. The technique involves the use of a number of strokes and hand movements including long, gliding strokes, muscle kneading, ‘hacking’ of tapping various parts of the body with the hand, and muscle vibration.
In Swedish massage, the practitioner incorporates long, firm strokes with gentle tapping. In this manner, what are known as ‘long muscles’ i.e., muscles in the legs, back etc, are stimulated on a large area, increasing blood circulation and helping to limber stiff joints and relieve feelings of stress. In addition to using these various hand movements, the practitioner uses special “massage oils” and lotions to decrease friction and give a more pleasurable effect. Strokes known as ‘pressure strokes’ are used to ‘heat’ up the body areas being massaged.
The person receiving the treat is either scantily clothes or not clothed at all. The person is usually covered by a sheet, however, in a process known as “draping’. In this manner, the practitioner removes only the part of the sheet on the body area to be massaged.
Another type of Swedish massage, known as ‘flat stone massage’, heated flat stones are placed on the body to bring warmth to the areas being treated. Afterwards, the stones are removed and the practitioner applies long, kneading strokes with his hands. The combination of the heated stones and the practitioner’s strokes give a very special and relaxing effect. Sometimes the alternate use of both heated stones, such as balsat, an cooling stones made from marble, give a very pleasant effect.
Swedish massage is often used in conjunction with other types of massage, including sport and deep tissue massage. A common technique is to stimulate the blood flow towards the heart by stimulating blood circulation. Benefits from Swedish massage techniques include relaxation, blood flow stimulation, removing muscular tension discomfort, especially following fractures and severe sprains, and as a healing technique in stress management. The treatment should not be used if a person is suffering from any health problem dealing with or indicating a serious illness including fever, jaundice, diarrhea, vomiting, etc.
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