Swedish massage is the most traditional form of Western massage, and for many in the United States, it’s the image associated with massage. Swedish massage, or classic massage as it called in some countries, is a relatively gentle massage form focused on the body’s superficial layers. It is provided to promote general relaxation and well-being and sometimes for relief for symptoms associated with health conditions. Swedish massage is known to promote circulation. Among the areas of research: the potential of massage to improve blood pressure and other vital signs. In short, it’s gaining a reputation as more than just a stress-buster.
There are five basic strokes: effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction, and vibration. Petrissage refers to kneading motions, effleurage to stroking – the massage technique one may associate most strongly with Swedish massage and with the accompanying relaxation.
Swedish massage is generally practiced with the client or patient lying on a massage table with draping in place of outer clothing. Massage therapists use massage oils and may incorporate elements such as aroma to contribute to relaxation and wellness. Swedish massage may be practiced in spa settings or clinical settings. Many massage therapists provide sessions in their own homes and/ or travel to clients’ homes. Franchises are another common setting. Sessions are often an hour in length. Sessions performed for health benefits may be significantly shorter.
Many massage techniques are based in part on Swedish massage, so it provides a foundation even if career goals will require multiple modalities. For example, from Swedish massage, one may progress to deeper massage focused on the muscles of different parts of the body. Chair massage can use the Swedish massage technique, adapted for practicality. Prenatal massage is often based off Swedish massage, but is designed to maximize symptom relief as well as ensure safety. Another variant is a hot stone massage where hot basalt stones are incorporated into the session.
Massage itself is an ancient practice. The practice of codifying it is more recent. While the name used widely in the United States pays homage to Sweden, a French vocabulary is used – and it may be more appropriate to credit the codification to a person of Dutch ancestry (https://www.amcollege.edu/blog/dutch-origins-of-swedish-massage-amc-miami).
Research on the benefits of Swedish massage is varied. One recent study focused on blood glucose in children (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22052142). Others have focused on the effects of Swedish massage on blood pressure in adult populations.
Researchers at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have demonstrated that Swedish massage can alter biological markers of the immune response as well as hormones associated with stress (https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/09/100908094809.htm).
Still other research focuses on the potential of Swedish massage to decrease anxiety or increase well-being during specific situations – like when patients are facing the stress of the ICU (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28750965).
From: https://www.massagetherapylicense.org/articles/swedish-massage/
Reduce Stress
Anyone that has gotten a massage knows that it can be a relaxing and calming experience, but did you know that it can actually reduce your stress levels as well? Stress can cause a large number of concerns for your body including irritability, weight gain, sleep problems, and more. It is imperative to get your stress levels under control to have a healthy mind and body. Thankfully getting regular massages could be the answer to your stress problem!
A recent study conducted by Chang Gung University concluded that there was a positive correlation between stress levels and getting regular massages. This is because researchers found that when a participant got a massage, their cortisol levels significantly reduced. Cortisol is your stress hormone and controls your fight or flight response. Not only did it reduce participants’ stress levels during the massage, but for up to eighteen hours after it had been completed.
Improve Sleep
Sleep is incredibly important to everyone’s physical and mental well-being. According to a study conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in three Americans do not get an efficient amount of sleep. Getting an aromatherapy massage could help you get a full night’s rest.
Aromatherapy has been around for thousands of years and is the practice of utilizing essential oils to combat different ailments. An aromatherapy massage uses lotions with essential oils and uses a diffuser to allow the client to inhale the oils as well. Different essential oils can treat different problems you might be experiencing. Some of the best to treat sleep problems include lavender, peppermint, and roman chamomile. Request these essential oils next time you get a massage for a relaxing time and a restful sleep.
Pain Management
If you are someone that experiences any kind of pain on a regular basis then you are not alone. The National Institute of Health reported that pain affects more people than diabetes, heart disease, and cancer combined. With such an epidemic happening, many people have turned to natural alternatives to reduce their chronic pain levels to avoid addictive medications.
The Massage Therapy Foundation published a research project that involved hospital patients that were experiencing pain because of surgical, medical, or other reasons. They integrated thirty-minute massages into their routine several times a week. The study demonstrated that massages led to a significant decrease in pain levels, and also helped patients sleep patterns, relaxation, the healing process, and more.
Detoxification
Many massage patrons have been told to drink lots of water after their deep tissue massage, but many do not know the reason why. It is because when someone gets a massage, your body begins to release toxins that are stored throughout the muscles.
The pressing movement and release during a massage help with the circulation of blood movement and the lymphatic system. Water assists your body in bringing oxygen, new blood, and nutrients to your muscles, organs, and tissue.
Massages also help to flush out waste products that are created by different cells each day. All of this helps to flush out the toxins that are built up in your lymphatic system. Getting rid of these impurities in your system can help to increase energy, aid in weight loss, and reduce inflammation.
Strengthen Immune System
Looking for ways to fight off the cold or flu this season? Well, you’re in luck! A massage could be the perfect boost that your immune system needs to get through this year healthy and sickness free.
As stated above, massages help to increase circulation throughout the body. When this happens, it supports an increase in the activity level of white blood cells that are used to combat any virus or infection that it comes in contact with. This increase in cells helps to strengthen your immune system and cognitive skills before, during, and after illness strikes.
https://www.lavidamassagefederalwaywa.com/blog/five-benefits-of-massage-therapy/
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