Modality of the Month

 

Swedish Massage

 

 

Swedish Massage is the most common and best-known type of massage in the West. If it's your first time for Massage or you don't get massage very often, Swedish massage is the perfect massage for you. If you want deeper work and can tolerate more pressure, it's better to book a deep tissue massage, which is another form of Swedish massage.

 

 

Why It's Called Swedish MassageSwedish massage is based on the Western concepts of anatomy and physiology as opposed to energy work that is more common in Asian-style massage. Both Swedish massage and physical therapy were pioneered by a Swedish physiologist, Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839 )at the University of Stockholm. In the early 19th century he developed a system called "Medical Gymnastics" which included movements performed by a therapist. These became the known as "Swedish movements" in Europe and "the Swedish Movement Cure" when they came to the U.S. in 1858. Today it is simply known as Swedish massage.

 

What Happens During A Swedish Massage
In all Swedish massage, the therapist lubricates the skin with massage oil or lotion and performs various massage strokes. These movements warm up the muscle tissue, releasing tension and gradually breaking up muscle "knots" or adhered tissues, called adhesions. Swedish massage promotes relaxation, among other health benefits:  


Swedish Massage Basics Video


     

relieves muscular tension, stiffness, and pain – helps with fibromyalgia, arthritis, and even chronic tension headaches

increases flexibility

reduces fatigue, stress, depression, and anxiety

improves posture

enhances athletic performance

improves circulation and reduces swelling and edema

alleviates PMS and menopausal symptoms

helps with cellulite and weight-related problems

improves respiratory function, which is especially important if you smoke or suffer from asthma or frequent coughs

increases activity of your immune system, which protects you from bouts of cold and flu

Before the massage, the therapist should ask you about any injuries or other conditions that he or she should know about. Things you would want tell a therapist include areas of tightness or pain, allergies, and conditions like pregnancy. You can also tell them up front if you have a preference for light or firm pressure. It's best not to get a massage if you are ill.


After the consultation, the therapist instructs you how to lie on the table -- face up or face down, and underneath the sheet or towel -- and then leaves the room. He or she will knock or ask if you are ready before entering.


During your Massage, you are generally nude underneath a towel or sheet. The therapist uncovers only the part of the body he/she is working on, a technique called draping. If the nudity gets you out of your comfort zone, you can keep your underwear on, and many newcomers do.   You usually start by laying face down with your head in a u-shaped face cradle so your spine stays neutral.


The therapist generally starts by works your back, using various massage strokes that include effleurage, kneading, friction, stretching and tapping.    When he's finished with the back, he or she works the back of each leg. When done with the back side, he or she holds the sheet or towel up and looks away while you turn over onto your back and scoot down; then he or she quickly covers you again.


The therapist then massages the front of each leg, both arms, and generally finishes with your neck and shoulders.   Some therapists work in a different order, and all have their own style and techniques.


If you only have 50 minutes, you can also ask them to spend more time on a certain area. If the pressure is too light or too firm, you should speak up and ask the therapist to adjust it.


 Swedish massage usually includes some deeper work on areas of specific muscle tension, but if you truly want deepter, more intensive work and firmer pressure, book a deep tissue massage.


Until next month...
In Wellness,