Most people are at least vaguely familiar with Swedish massage. It is one of the most popular styles of massage for general wellness. The majority of people find that a Swedish massage perfectly suits their needs. Most people in Tucson who are new to massage prefer Swedish massage as a starting point. If you’re looking to incorporate massage into your wellness routine, this is the perfect place to begin.
Why Is It Called A Swedish Massage?
Swedish massage and physical therapy often go hand in hand. This is because they were both more or less invented by the same person. Per Henrik Ling studied and taught physiology at the University of Stockholm, which is why we call the procedure Swedish massage.
What is a Swedish Massage?
Swedish massage is a style of massage that incorporates a variety of massage techniques. Think of it as a selection of “best of” movements. There are dozens of styles of massage, each with their strongest points and most effective techniques. Swedish massage curates the best aspects of all of these styles, blending them into a comprehensive health and wellness treatment.
A Swedish massage utilizes long strokes, kneading of the muscle tissue, light friction, tapping to vibrate the muscles (also called “percussive” movements), and even light slaps. Don’t be intimidated by the slaps – they’re very gentle light swats (similar to shooing away a fly) that help to draw oxygenated blood to the muscles.
In many ways, Swedish massage is the foundation for most types of massage treatments. Without Swedish massage’s unique blend of techniques, we wouldn’t have such effective physical therapy solutions and comprehensive treatment plans for muscular fatigue or injury.
The Process Of A Swedish Massage
Swedish massage begins just like any other massage. Your massage therapist will apply an oil to inhibit friction on the skin, preventing an unpleasant tugging sensation or irritation from dry body hair rubbing against the skin on the massage site. While your massage therapist is prepping you, he or she may ask you questions about what areas you’d like to treat and any muscular injury symptoms you may have.
Swedish massages start by easing in. Your therapist will perform light strokes to assess the area and get the blood flowing before the intensity of the massage increases. If deep pressure is uncomfortable for you, or if light pressure doesn’t seem to be enough, let your massage therapist know.
If your previous experience with massage has given you an informed preference, vocalize this preference before the massage begins. If this is your first massage, you can let your massage therapist know at any time if you’d like for the pressure to be reduced or enhanced. Your massage therapist will gradually begin to meaningfully work on the affected muscle groups as your communication increases.
The Physical Benefits Of Swedish Massage
Swedish massage boasts a lot of benefits for your lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is what helps the body to circulate fluids, as well as draining excess fluid that contains metabolized byproducts of the body repairing and nourishing itself. When you get a Swedish massage, the lymphatic system is heavily stimulated. The stimulation gives your lymphatic system a big push, helping it do its job quickly and effectively.
Your massage therapist will encourage oxygenated blood to enter the muscles, displacing the old fluid full of metabolic byproducts and causing the new fluid to flush out the undesired remnants lingering within the muscle. Your body can immediately use the nutrients and oxygen in your blood to expedite the repair of your injured muscle.
The effects of a Swedish massage tend to develop over time, although most massage recipients find that they experience a near immediate sense of relief. Over the course of the few days following the massage, patients find that their flexibility and mobility improve. They also see a significant reduction in their pain. Some injuries may require several massage sessions for a complete recovery.
How Swedish Massage Benefits Your Wellbeing
Swedish massage offers as many mental benefits as it does physical benefits. The body responds to Swedish massage by releasing endorphins. Endorphins are, in essence, the body’s natural medicine. They help us sleep, reduce the intensity of the sensation of pain, and ease symptoms of depression or anxiety. When the body is encouraged to release these endorphins, the effects can be remarkable.
Following a massage, most patients report that they feel less stress. They report a higher quality of sleep and an enhanced mood. Massage can effectively reset your body clock by supporting deep rest, which is exactly what the body requires for meaningful healing.
Experience Swedish Massage
Our massage therapists in Tucson offer a whole host of massage styles to help you feel better and find your calm. Most people are excellent candidates for Swedish massage, whether they’re looking to heal muscular aches and pains or simply seeking a mood boosting relaxation experience. You can book now online or by phone.