SWEDISH MASSAGE
History
Swedish Massage was founded by Per Henrik Ling who combined movement and massage to promote general relaxation, improved circulation, improved range of motion, and decreased muscle tension. Ling had founded the Royal Central Institute of Gymnastics in Stockholm, Sweden where physicians came from all over the world to learn here and then teach in their respective countries. The Swedish movement was later introduced into America by two brothers, George and Charles Taylor who wrote the first American textbook in massage.
Setting
In Swedish massage, the therapist can add oil, cream or lotion to the body using different techniques focusing on a specific body part or the entire body. Clothing is removed (to your comfort level- most are completely undressed, others with underwear only) and the client is placed on the massage table covered with soothing linens, leaving only the area to be massaged exposed. In addition to the physical connection, the mind is sent to paradise with a collage of relaxing sounds.
Techniques
Swedish massage encompasses 5 Swedish strokes, which can be personalized for each respective
individual. The strokes are Effleurage, Petrissage, Vibration, Tapotement, and Friction. Effleurage strokes are long, gliding strokes that gets the blood circulated, skin warmed up and can be a somewhat superficial like pressure. Petrissage strokes are kneading, compressing and lifting that warms the tissue for deeper work and increases the nutrients and oxygen to the muscle. Vibration strokes are fine, tremulous movements which can stimulate and sedate the targeted areas. A Tapotement stroke includes hacking, tapping and soft fist beating, which tones muscle and softens tissue with added blood flow to the area. Friction strokes move tissue under the skin, breaking up adhesions and scar tissue while carrying away wastes and toxins out of the body. Pressure can vary from light to firm.
Benefits
Besides leaving the mind and body in a state of relaxation, massage also alleviates pain,
eliminates wastes and toxins within the body, decreases muscle tension, while increasing circulation, energy and blood flow. Overall health and piece of mind is just a phone call away. Schedule a massage today and enjoy a mini vacation that is customized for you!
