Various aspects of the Swedish Massage technique include:

1. Massage Movements

a) Effleurage (stroking):

Soothing, long, gliding strokes made with the entire flat surface of the hands that may be deep or superficial. The major purpose of this movement is to heighten circulation and increase depth of relaxation.

b) Petrissage (kneading):

Firmly but gently grasping the skin and surface muscles with thumb and fingers, and rolling, squeezing, or wringing them, and dropping them back into place. It is stimulating to the muscles and to circulation of the deeper blood vessels and lymphatics.

c) Friction:

May be long, slow, firm stroking movements or rolling circular movement in which the hand is kept in contact with the skin and the superficial tissues are moved over the deeper underlying ones. Used in treatment of joints and around bony prominences to break down adhesions, clear out congestion and toxic waste build-up. It raises local temperature and should be followed by effleurage.

d) Tapotement (percussion):

Stimulating, rapid alternate movements using both hands in: 1. tapping - using fingertips; 2. hacking - using karate chop like movements; 3. cupping - using cupped hand movements; 4. Slapping - using flat, open palms; or 5. pounding - using both fists. It is stimulating to the muscles and may be stimulating or calming to the nerves. Avoid heavy percussion over the kidneys and bony structures.

e) Vibration

Very rapid back and forth shaking or trembling movements performed by the whole hand or the fingers; used on the upper back, buttocks and thighs. Has a stimulating effect upon the nervous system by acting on the nerve centers or terminal nerve branches. It can also be calming if done gently on the solar plexus or sacrum with a polarity hold.

For vascular safety, massage towards the heart only.  Generally, the direction for most massage movements is with the venous flow, toward the center of the heart. Exception would be "nerve" strokes, which are outward, away from the center.

Can vary from light to moderate to heavy depending on the type of massage and the objective of the massage.

The rate of the massage will depend on the type, its purpose and the condition of the receiver. Generally a slower massage will be more sedating, while a faster pace one will be more stimulating. For the most part, rhythm should be even, which allows the body to relax.

Some therapists, as I do, include both.

• Daily!
• As often as you can get someone to massage you.
• As often as you can afford and are willing to make it a priority.

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