Swedish Massage Technique

In fact the "Swedish Massage technique" refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones.

The muscles are rubbed in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.

On the more delicate and bony structures of your body, such as the face, hands and feet, soft strokes are used.

For the muscled areas subject to stress, like your neck and shoulders, stronger / firmer strokes are used.

The main purpose of the Swedish massage technique is to increase the oxygen flow in your blood and to release toxins from your muscles. In case of muscular strain it will reduce the recovery time by flushing the tissues of uric acid, lactic acid, and other metabolic wastes.

It increases blood circulation without increasing the strain for your heart. It will stretch your ligaments and tendons with the goal to keep them supple and pliable.

Swedish Massage Technique - usual sequence

2. Kneading movements with the hands, thumbs and/or fingers.

3. Circular pressures with the palms of hands, thumbs and/or fingers.

4. Oscillatory movements that shake or vibrate the body.

5. Brisk hacking or tapping (Percussion).

6. Bending and stretching (Passive and active movements).

The massage therapist will with firm, gentle pressure, use the movements/techniques listed above to create relaxation and flexibility, to increase oxygen in the blood, and to ease aches and pains.

Deep pressure is applied to help rid toxins in the body, to stimulate your skin and nervous system, to help recover more quickly from injuries, and to reduce emotional and physical stress.

During the massage the parts of your body not worked on are covered by a sheet or towel. The therapist will use various massage oils (for example rose oil, lavender, eucalyptus) to facilitate long gliding strokes along the muscles and to relax your body.

This will facilitate the flushing of the toxins released by the massage.