Relaxing Touch 6 May 201 | Page 9

Swedish/holistic massage Massage, also known as masso or massa, is not uncommon to mankind. The oldest book about massage was written 3000 BC. Massage is the manipulation of superficial and deeper layer of muscle and connective tissue using various techniques, to enhance function, aid in the healing process, decrease muscle reflex activity, inhibit motor- neuron excitability, and promote relaxation and well-being and as a recreational activity. Swedish massage evolved in the first half of the 20th century to become a whole system of physiotherapy, including soft tissue manipulation, movements, hydrotherapy and electrotherapy by the 1930s. Over the past 11 years it was giving the strongest foundation in massage therapy compared to anywhere else. It uses the perfect combination of rhythm, pace and pressure together with techniques that flow seamlessly together, to create a powerful experience. Swedish massage touches and works on all the bodily systems to bring balance to the system by facilitating the body’s own natural healing system into an equilibrium. The techniques effect the circulatory, lymphatic, nervous, muscular, skeletal, endocrine, integumentary, digestive and respiratory system. If it's your first time or you don't get a massage often, a Swedish massage is a good fit for beginners. Most people get a 60-minute Swedish or deep tissue massage, but 90 minutes will give the therapist more time to work the muscle tissue and achieve results. If you want deeper work and can tolerate more pressure to get relief from chronic muscle pain, it's better to book a deep tissue massage, which is another form of Swedish massage. If you have pain, it will likely take a series of massages to get results. During the session your skin will be lubricated with massage oil before various massage strokes will be performed. These techniques will include the basic traditional Swedish massage technique: effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration/nerve strokes. Technique will be performed as a medium to firm pressure but can be request to be adjusted during the consultation session or during the session itself. The movements will warm up the muscle tissue, releasing tension and gradually breaking up muscle "knots" or adhered tissues, called adhesions. Swedish massage promotes relaxation, among other health benefits