Swedish Massage

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Swedish massage can be very relaxing in itself. In general the  use of repetitive and rhythmic stokes called effleurage  is used to relax soft tissue. Pressure can be adjusted from light to firm depending on your needs. This type of massage is great for first time guests for settling the mind, relieving minor aches and pains, and increasing circulation/lymphatic.

The most basic stroke of Swedish massage is called effleurage and is generally a smooth gliding  stroke with the motion of hand over hand.  This type of stroke is usually performed over large muscle areas such as the back, legs, and arms.  Smaller effleurage strokes can be applied to the hands, feet, and face. 

Another basic stroke of Swedish massage is called Petrissage or kneading. This stoke can be used on the calves, thighs, upper arms and shoulders. The action of this stroke is squeezing the muscle between the thumb and fingertips alternating from one hand to the other. 

The type of stroke called Friction is used as a deep circular or back and forth movement/motion that causes the underlying layers of tissue to rub against each other. This is generally used in a deep tissue massage to assist the body in breaking up knots (also called adhesions)

Percussion strokes involve quick and striking movements. The therapist uses supple wrist action in combination of the sides of the hands, cupped hands, or. closed fists.