Thursday, November 3, 2011

Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage
http://www.bejanies.com/swedish massage.html

Swedish massage is your standard meat-and-potatoes massage. That is to say, it is the most basic massage available and therefore ideal for newcomers. And best of all, it’s aimed primarily at your relaxation.

So what are you waiting for newcomers, skip your anger management class, put on a little towel, and read this extremely relaxing article about the extremely relaxing effects of Swedish massage.
Swedish massage is not only healthy but extremely enjoyable as it soothes and calms. It’s fairly affordable and doesn’t incorporate mud, heated stones, wooden utensils, trolls, or any of the other weird stuff that some massages require.

Swedish massage is not only healthy but extremely enjoyable as it soothes and calms. It’s fairly affordable and doesn’t incorporate mud, heated stones, wooden utensils, trolls, or any of the other weird stuff that some massages require.

What is it?

Swedish massage is widely considered to be among the most basic methods of massage and is therefore usually the first type of massage studied by massage therapists. The Swedish massage compiles a variety of techniques that aim to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones. While the main purpose remains to increase oxygen flow in the blood and to release toxins from the muscles, it is also soothing, as opposed to the rougher techniques of deep-tissue massage. It is also up to you to state your preference of pressure, as Swedish massage can be performed with a light hand or a firm hand.

There are generally six standard techniques that are administered during Swedish massage. The sequence is usually as follows:

Effleurage, which refers to long, gliding strokes with the palms, thumbs, or fingertips across the body.

Petrissage, or kneading and squeezing the muscles of the body. This allows for a deeper and more penetrating massage.

Friction, or the vigorous rubbing of the masseuse’s palms against the surface of the client’s skin. This helps to warm up the muscles, which in turn helps to relax the muscles.

Vibration, which refers to oscillatory movements that shake or vibrate the body. Oftentimes, the massage therapist will move the heel of their hand forward and backward across the skin to loosen specific muscles.

Tapottement, or percussion refers to brisk hacking or tapping (think karate chops administered by a very weak ninja) of a particular area.

This technique is aimed at energizing muscles.

Traction, which refers to passive and active movements like bending and stretching. Generally, the masseuse will pull at the arms and legs so as to stretch the muscles that he or she has been working over for the last hour.
Who needs it?

Most people will find some benefit from Swedish massage, due to its somewhat low intensity level and highly relaxing effects. However, Swedish massage may be particularly beneficial to people who suffer from chronic joint stiffness or those with osteoarthritis, as the techniques involved are helpful in reducing pain. People with poor circulation will also find comfort in many of the techniques of Swedish massage, as it promotes healthy circulation. Lastly, those that are feeling stressed or overworked may want to consider a Swedish massage before trying anything brash, like quitting your job and reciting the entire “Who’s Coming With Me?” monologue from Jerry Maguire as you’re cleaning out your desk.

Benefits

Swedish massage benefits your body in many healthy ways. It is known to shorten recovery time when it comes to muscular strains, as the techniques help to flush muscle tissue of lactic acid, as well as other metabolic wastes. Swedish massage also helps stretch ligaments and tendons so that they don’t tighten up on you.

As it is beneficial to one’s physical health, it is also beneficial to one’s mental health as it reduces emotional stress, as well as physical. The specific techniques of Swedish massage help to stimulate the skin and nervous system, which in turn calms and soothes your nerves. On top of all that, it will generally be the least expensive massage on the menu, as it is the most rudimentary. Certainly that will calm your nerves as well.

Risks

While Swedish massage harbors little risk, it is not recommended for those experiencing fever, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, varicose veins, or jaundice. Also, those with high blood pressure or heart problems should avoid massage around the abdomen. As well as that, anyone with fractures or bruises should avoid massage in those areas. Lastly, pregnant women should check with their doctor first.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Swedish massage is not only healthy but extremely enjoyable as it soothes and calms. It’s fairly affordable and doesn’t incorporate mud, heated stones, wooden utensils, trolls, or any of the other weird stuff that some massages require. It’s your safest bet and your best bet if you’re a first-timer.

http://www.bejanies.com

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