The most common type of massage used nowadays is the Swedish massage therapy, the primary result of which is to relax the body. It aims to increase the flow of oxygen in the blood resulting to enhanced blood circulation. This type was formulated by Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish doctor but it was Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger who gave the French names to some of the strokes used in Swedish massage.

It employs five different strokes, usually in the direction to the heart. The long gliding strokes using the palm, thumb or fingertips are known as the effleurage while the firm kneading movement is called the petrissage. The tapotement or percussion is the rhythmic tapping or brisk hacking. Friction is created by applying pressure or compression. Vibration or movements which cause the body to shake and vibrate plus the bending and stretching round up the methods used in Swedish massage. Lotions or massage oils are used often used by the practitioner.

Increased blood circulation, lowered level of toxins in the muscles, relief of stress and enhanced muscular and joint flexibility are some of the benefits of Swedish massage. It also relieves the pain due to osteoarthritis. A sense of well-being is attained after a Swedish massage session.:)

Be Sociable, Share!

•