Massage Therapy And Its Benefits
Author: Ronnie Tanner
The techniques used in what is known as "Swedish" massage came from gymnastic theory initially developed by Swedish Doctor and Professor Pehr Henrik Ling in the 1800's.
Ling learned acupressure techniques from a Chinese friend during his travels. He combined these techniques with his knowledge of anatomy and physiology to develop a theory of gymnastics that he used to treat his own and other's ailments.
The strokes he used acquired French names when Dutch Dr. Johan Georg Mezger adapted them to establish the modern method now used.
Today Swedish massage is still considered very therapeutic. The original techniques were actually rather strenuous. The modern version is considered relaxing, but uses the same strokes.
The five basic strokes used in Swedish massage are: Effleurage; which is a long smooth stroke, Tapotement; a quick repetitive stroke, Friction; done by rubbing the skin quickly to warm it, Vibration; created by the therapist's fingertips in a small area or manipulating a whole joint, and Petrissage; a squeezing or kneading stroke.
There are many variations and combinations of these five strokes that can be suited to each client's needs.
Traditionally, Swedish massage is a full-body massage performed on a nude client lying on a table and draped with a sheet or towel. The extent of the massage can be tailored to the client's preferences and comfort level. It is not required that they be totally undressed. Oil or lotion is used to facilitate the strokes. The sessions usually take 30 to 60 minutes.
The benefits of Swedish massage are many. Just the experience of being touched can induce the feeling that you are being cared for. The various strokes relax muscles, relieve pain and increase circulation which can slow the heart rate and blood pressure. Swedish massage also improves muscle tone and stimulates the skin, nervous system and digestive system.
Swedish massage is a very popular type of massage therapy and trained therapists are valued. See www.blue.edu for further information.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/wines-and-spirits-articles/massage-therapy-and-its-benefits-1867438.html
About the Author
Find out more about Massage Therapy and other industry specific topics.
[TEMPLATE]cj bass fishing[/TEMPLATE]
