Swedish massage relaxes muscles and increases the oxygen flow in the bloodstream. Swedish massage also releases toxins from the muscles. A variety of techniques and pressures are applied in the direction of the blood flowing from the heart.
Instructions
1. Offer a selection of aromatic massage oils and allow the client to select a scent (or none) of his preference. Apply a small amount of massage oil to the palms of your hands.
2. Begin with effleurage. Apply gliding strokes using the thumbs, palms and fingertips from the shoulders down to the small of the back.
3. Add petrissage motions. These are kneading motions with the hands, palms and fingertips. Apply this motion over the entire back from the shoulders to the waist.
4. Switch to friction motions. Apply the palms, thumbs and fingertips in a circular motion up and down the back.
5. Introduce vibrating movements and/or tapping movements to help circulate the blood and break up knots in the tissues. Discontinue if the client expresses displeasure with these movements.
6. End the massage session using lighter strokes. The client should feel relaxed and invigorated after a good Swedish massage session.
Tags: from shoulders, massage session, palms fingertips, Swedish massage