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What is Swedish massage therapy? Swedish massage therapy is considered to be the foundation of other types of Western massages. This is because the principles behind it are the same as when you try sports massage, seated chair massage, hot stone therapy, deep tissue massage or aromatherapy.

It is also called the classic massage because it represents the Western way of relaxing those muscles. The main purpose of the Swedish massage then and now is still the same. This is to increase the flow of oxygen in the blood so toxins are released from the muscles. These toxins include lactic and uric acid as well as metabolic waste.

There are various techniques in the Swedish massage. Some examples of these are friction, effleurage, kneading, tapping, long strokes, vibrations and shaking motions.

“Effleurage massage strokes In Swedish massage,” the effleurage strokes include long gliding strokes that go from the neck down to the base of the spine and/or from the shoulder to the finger tips. All of these strokes should always go towards the heart to aid blood and lymphatic flow. These long strokes are done to the entire body. The massage therapist will use his or her whole hand or thumb pads to do this stroke, it is sure to relax anyone.

“Petrissage massage strokes,” the Petrissage massage stroke goes deeper, and is meant to gently lift muscles up and away from the bone. Then the muscles are gently rolled and squeezed. The kneading and compression motions are to stimulate circulation deep in the muscles. By increasing the circulation this stroke helps clear out toxins from the muscles and nerve tissue.

“Friction massage strokes,” the friction massage stroke in Swedish massage therapy is the deepest penetrating stroke. The masseur or massage therapist will make deep circular and/or transverse movements with their thumb pads or fingertips. This stroke is used near joints and other bony areas such as the side of your spine. When a muscle heals the muscle fibers bond together causing knots (also called adhesions). The friction from this stroke breaks down the adhesion, thus reliving pain and improving the flexibility of your muscles and joints.

“Tapotement massage strokes,” the tapotement strokes are better know to ordinary people as the karate chop, since you use your hands to alternately strike or tap the muscles for an invigorating effect. There are variations to this stroke, though the variations are just how your hand is when you strike: Open or closed fist, with the side of the hand or fingertips.

In conclusion, if the life style you are living is leaving you tired, stressed, and full of aches and pains, then making a appointment with your local Swedish massage practitioner, would be the best thing you could do. You will definitely feel more relaxed and vitalized.

There are many more benefits to this form of massage with relaxation being a major player in this therapy. Furthermore a person can achieve better overall well being and health if they start receiving a Swedish massage program.