The Origin Of Swedish Massage Therapy

Swedish massage is possibly the most frequent form of therapeutic massage in the US. It involves the application of kneading, elbows or palms on the skin to control the deeper layers of muscles to enhance physical and mental health. Active or passive movements of the arms or legs can also be part of the therapy. The advantages of Swedish massage include improved blood circulation, psychological and emotional relaxation, lowered anxiety, reduced muscle tension, range of motion and mobility.

There are lots of different techniques used in Swedish massage. The five basic strokes used in this sort of massage are effleurage, friction, tapping or percussion. Effleurage and friction strokes work deep into the muscles. Tapping and percussion are often applied to reduce soreness, inflammation and stiffness. All the above methods to relax and calm the body allowing the person receiving the treatment to be more comfortable.

Lots of the claims of Swedish massage can be compared to those of other types of therapy including acupuncture. Acupuncture is based on the notion that the body includes energy and that by applying certain specific pressure to those energy centers, the body is able to heal itself. Swedish massage uses similar techniques where effleurage and percussion are used to relax the muscles, releasing tension and allowing the muscles to release built up pressure. Relaxed muscles are less likely to deal with in times of tension and decrease blood pressure.

Traditionally, Swedish massage uses the effleurage technique where the therapist utilizes mild strokes into the muscles, using both the elbows and hands. The strokes are generally light and are not intended to cause pain or discomfort. In modern treatment, this technique may be combined with the slower, sliding movement of effleurage. The sliding movement is supposed to stretch the muscle and let it be more receptive to being medicated. It also works on the nerves by releasing pressure from them.

Sliding movements of effleurage can be combined with massage called percussion. This combination is supposed to concentrate on the large muscle groups like the trapezius and the infraspinatus. Both of these muscles help maintain good posture. Percussion helps to increase circulation. Blood vessels in the trapezius and the infraspinatus are important in maintaining good posture. Removing blockages in these muscles allows greater flow.

Among the health benefits of Swedish massage is to boost circulation. The use of heat promotes better circulation. Hot stones placed on specific areas also help stimulate blood circulation. Swedish massage therapists often recommend the placement of oils, creams or lotions at key places where muscles become tight. These small things make it easy for the practitioner to reach all of the areas where muscles are tight.

Regular Swedish massage therapy can cause a diminished incidence of injury due to overexertion. Overdoing any sort of physical activity can lead to overuse injuries. The decreased risk of injury during the course of this sort of therapy is because of the increased flexibility and strength of muscles. By relaxing the muscle groups, the risk of injury is decreased.

In general, Swedish massage has many health benefits. The wide variety of techniques ensures that a patient will be given a treatment that is suited to their individual needs. By working with a skilled Swedish massage therapist, patients have the ability to get the results they desire. Many people are surprised to find that their range of movement is increased after a session. This improved mobility enables them to do more things with their lives. For many, this alone can help them feel healthier, look better and finally enjoy life more.

Swedish massage therapy originated from the ancient Thracian people of central Europe. They practiced their art in oils, creams and gels applied to specific problem areas. In the early days, these techniques were just utilized to treat a few specific issues. However, as time passed, these natural remedies were rediscovered and now are utilized to cure a wide array of issues, including joint and muscular pain, insomnia, anxiety, arthritis and chronic fatigue.

Using a Swedish massage oil will increase the sensual experience. Different oils have different properties that can be soothing to the skin and help to decrease muscle strain and stress. Thus, a therapist will understand what oils to use based on the client's needs. Using a specific oil during a specific treatment can help to reduce the possibility of an adverse reaction to the oils.

Swedish massage therapists are trained to determine muscle tension using both their hands and their tongues. When a client is feeling stressed and tensed, they could unwind and release negative energy by using the hands to massage the shoulders, neck and lower back. After the tension was released, the man or woman is more receptive to the therapist's soothing touch.