Acknowledging that there are hundreds of massage forms found around the world and even here in the United States, you might ask, “ which one is right for me and why? ”
Specific needs and interests require searching for the right art form for you. Here at Inner-getics, we offer Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue Massage. Both being popular forms with the Swedish Massage being of the lighter and faster movements and the Deep Tissue Massage being a slower and more penetrating massage.
The Swedish Massage is controversial in the explanation of where, who, and when the origin came about. It is widely agreed, however, that Swedish Massage is the most popular form of massage in the United States. There are 6 basic techniques of Swedish Massage that are commonly used that you might be interested in knowing something about.
1. Effleurage-long ,gliding and continuous strokes with full relaxed hands. These moves can be light (sedating) or firm (invigorating).
2. Petrissage- firm kneading strokes with hands or fingers. The skin and muscle tissue are raised from their ordinary position and then squeezed, rolled or pinched with firm pressure. This stroke is used to reduce soreness and stiffness of muscles by stimulating circulation of blood and lymph systems.
3. Friction- most penetrating of the strokes and consists of deep circular or transverse movements made with the thumb pads or fingertips. The therapist applies deep, circular movements near joints and other bony areas. The friction breaks down adhesions, which are knots that result when muscle fibers bind together.
4. Tapotement-this consists of a series of briskly applied percussive movements, alternating the hands to strike or tap the muscle for an invigorating effect. The edge of the hand, tips of the fingers, or closed fist may be used. This movement releases tension and cramping from muscles in spasm.
5. Vibration or Shaking- this involves the therapist pressing hands on the back or limbs and rapidly shaking for a few seconds. It can be helpful to people suffering from low back pain.
6. Percussion-quick movements usually very stimulating and can be numbing. It involves cupping, hacking, beating, and slapping.
The purpose of Deep Tissue Massage is to release the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes and deep finger pressure on the contracted areas. The technique uses very slow and purposeful strokes. Direct deep pressure is applied across the grain of the muscles rather than with the grain. Deep tissue usually focuses on specific areas and may cause soreness right after the massage. Drinking water to replenish after detoxification is one of the important elements to rapid healing which may be 1-3 days after the massage. This massage is impossible to complete in 1 hour, it is better to focus on particular areas and handle each area with each therapeutic deep tissue treatment.