Swedish massage
Modern anatomy and physiology form the basis for Swedish massage being the first scientific style. Since, it is more scientific in approach, Swedish massage received wide acceptance in Europe and America for the last two centuries.
It become a common term, it become a synonym for SPA massage and even common people knows about Swedish massage. People massage with Swedish techniques in spas all over the world. Swedish massage is a standard offering on every menu. Swedish massage created a benchmark for SPA treatments in different styles. No matter whether it is Asian style or oriental style.
Dr. Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish doctor, originated Swedish massage. He combined various body workout methods to develop this massage technique. His knowledge in modern physiology and anatomy helped him to develop various movements which can be incorporated with a massage routine and is known as five classical movements or Swedish massage. From 1830-1839 Ling taught in Sweden and his technique got wide popularity in Europe. And by 1851 he found 38 Institutes to teach this massage style. After his death, Johann Mezger follower of Ling divided Swedish massage into three different styles. Mezger created three different styles of massage – Relaxation, Deep Tissue, and Lymphatic Drainage – to treat various body conditions.
The classical movements of Swedish Massage
Dr. per Henrik Ling created five classical movements to apply the massage strokes effectively in a massage routine. The classical Movements gives an arranged and organized outlook of the massage. Each classical movements are working on different levels of the body.
i Effleurage
ii Petrisage
iii Friction
iv Vibration
v Tapotment
Benefits of Swedish massage
Physiological benefits
Massage therapy enhances the circulatory, nervous, skeletal, and integumentary systems by boosting blood and lymph circulation, improving muscle function, and supporting joint mobility. It strengthens muscle contraction and relaxation, enhancing athletic performance and overall physical vitality. Massage also benefits other body systems indirectly, such as the digestive, reproductive, and endocrine systems.
Emotional benefits
Sometime massage treatments are used subconsciously to satisfy the emotional needs that nurturing the touch fulfills, dose of acceptance, care and attention. This can result in the release of emotion during treatment. Tears coming out from the eyes making sounds without meaning, laughing, sigh are the signs of emotional release during the massage. In very rare case the clients show anger as they let down their defenses in the safety experienced with their therapist.
Sensual relaxation
The relaxation response evoked by the massage affects the senses and induces sense of happiness. Stress hormones and cortisone levels are reduced and youth hormones will be activated. It brings about high energy level and youthfulness that creates new vision and new approaches to the life. So, that a massage can be a life changing experience as well.
Psychological effect
Regular massage helps clients become more in tune with their bodies, fostering relaxation, self-awareness, and improved well-being. This process enhances their understanding of body sensations, encourages responsibility for personal health, and supports positive body image. Many clients experience increased self-esteem and feel more connected to their own physical and mental wellness through these sessions.
Energy levels
with increased feeling of well being, many clients experience a sense of renewed energy. This can be emotional or result or better physical mobility. It is a good example of the use of massage to enhance performance. Professional athletes claim that, prevent massages can increase efficiency by up to 20%.
