Swedish Massage
Sharon Hopkins
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. All the while the
masseur’s subject has a real good time around the dinner table.
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.
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 regularly writes for
http://www.massagehealththerapy.com and introduces you to
Swedish massage, a popular type of massage therapy to detoxify
body tissues and boost overall oxygen content in the blood. She
also writes for other sites on Yoga, Hair-n-Skin-Care and
Massage Therapy.
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