Swedish or Relaxation Massage

Sequence of Techniques

• Effleurage: gliding strokes with the palms, thumbs and/or fingertips.
• Petrissage: kneading movements with the hands, thumbs and/or fingertips.
• Friction: circular pressures with the palms of hands, thumbs and/or fingertips.
• Vibration: oscillatory movements that shake or vibrate the body.
• Percussion: brisk hacking or tapping.
• Passive and Active Movements: bending and stretching.

What Is Swedish Massage?

Swedish Massage involves a system of long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration and shaking motions that apply pressure between muscles and bones, rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.

Swedish Massage feels good, is relaxing and invigorating.

The main purpose of Swedish Massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles.

Some other benefits include shortening recovery time from muscular strain, increased circulation without increased heart load, stretching of ligaments and tendons, skin stimulation and soothing of the nervous system.

Swedish Massage can also reduce stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested as part of a regular program for stress management.

Treatment are usually an hour. As oil is used, it is necessary for the patient to be partially unclothed, although well draped for the treatment.