Fashion
Swedish Massage:Full Body Benefit
Rachael van der Bol-Costa,
Certified Massage Therapist
Swedish Relaxation Massageis probably the most commonly used technique in the western massagecommunity. The reason this technique is called "Swedish"is because it was brought to the west by Per Henrik Ling (fromSweden) who is known as the "Father of Swedish Massage".The techniques applied in Swedish massage are gentle and rhythmic.Even though the pressure is relatively light, this treatment stillhas therapeutic benefits to the body. Some of these benefits include:an increase in blood flow, increased muscle tone, improved oxygenationto the muscles, and, of course, relaxation!
Swedish Massage enablesa client to have a relaxing, and restorative, full body treatmentin a 60 or 90 minute session. This can be a nice break for clientswho are receiving regular treatments for chronic pain, that onlywork on the specific area of discomfort. Although a Swedish Massageis not specific treatment for chronic pain and/or soft tissuedysfunction, it is effective in relaxing the body and decreasingoverall stress.
A full body Swedish massageusually includes treatment of the upper and lower back, neck,arms and hands, and legs and feet. Sometimes a therapist willalso treat the face and head. By working on the whole body, boththe therapist and client can discover areas that may need furthertreatment with more specific techniques. A full body massage isa good way for a therapist to access the needs of a client.
The other part of Swedishmassage is the type of lubricant used for the treatment. Sometherapists use oil, either unscented or with aromatherapy essencesadded. Many massage oils are made with nut oils, so if you areallergic to any nuts (allergies to peanuts are common), be sureto inform your therapist before starting a treatment. A therapistmay decide to use an unscented or aromatherapy scented lotion.Some massage therapists prefer using lotion because it gives morecontrol during the treatment and doesn't leave the client feelingoily afterwards. But whichever one is used, it's the proper techniqueand intent that will benefit you the most.
If someone has never hada massage before, Swedish massage is a good introduction to massagetherapy. Deeper techniques are more readily received when a personhas become familiar with the procedure of a massage treatment.
So for an overall feelingof well being, increased circulation, and much needed relaxation,treat yourself to a full body Swedish Massage.
Rachael van der Bol-Costa
Under The Palms