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Origin - Benefits
Traditional Massage: is based on
Swedish massage which was invented by a Swedish fencing instructor named
Per Henrik Ling in the 1830's when he injured his elbows, he reportedly
cured himself using tapping (percussion) strokes around the affected area.
He later developed the rest of the techniques to manipulate soft tissue..
Sometimes passive or active joint movements are also used. This technique
was brought to the U.S. from Sweden by two brothers, Dr. Charles and Dr.
George Taylor in the 1850's.
Unlike drug therapy,
which is often associated with many systemic and long-term side effects,
traditional
massage therapy
is relatively safe and has few contraindications.
Blood clots, Phlebitis, Inflammation, etc. Please consult your doctor.
Physical
benefits
There are numerous physical benefits associated with the use of Swedish
massage:
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loosening tight
muscles and stretching connective tissues
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relieving cramps
and muscle spasms and decreasing muscle fatigue
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loosening joints
and improving range of motion
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increasing muscle
strength
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sedating the
nervous system
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stimulating blood
circulation
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firming up muscle
and skin tone
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improving lymphatic drainage of metabolic wastes
Mental
and emotional benefits
Improvement in
length and quality of sleep
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Relief of stress, depression, anxiety and
irritation
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Increased ability
to concentrate
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Improved sense of
well-being
BASIC
MOVEMENTS OF SWEDISH MASSAGE
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STROKE |
USE |
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Effleurage:
Long, gliding, light stroke |
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Apply oil
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Introductory or transition stroke
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Stimulate circulation
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Calm
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Petrissage:
Kneading or lifting, slow |
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Separate tissue
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Work deeper into the tissue
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Tapotement:
Percussive, tapping, cupping, light and fast |
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Stimulate
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Good for ending chair massages in office settings
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Friction:
Superficial: rubbing skin lightly and quickly
Deep: Moving tissue under skin without moving skin; can vary
pressure, pace, and direction |
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Stimulate circulation
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Separate tissue
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Heat tissue (cross-fiber)
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Vibration:
Rocking, shaking, vibrating |
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Stimulate
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Separate tissue
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Compression:
Pressing, may slide |
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Stretch muscle and ligament
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Stimulate circulation
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Separate tissue
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