No two massages are created equally. That’s why there are so many approaches to solving the same problem. Different styles of massage will generate different outcomes, and many people prefer the outcome they receive from a Swedish massage. If you think a Swedish massage would do you well, make sure you understand what it’s designed to address and the way it works. Most people find that a Swedish massage at Greentoes in Tucson is exactly what they’re looking for.
The Origins Of The Swedish Massage
Despite the name, Swedish massages have absolutely nothing to do with Sweden. In fact, they’re from a completely different part of the globe. Swedish massage takes elements from almost every other type of massage, giving it a reputation for being the best of both worlds. Swedish massage is almost like trail mix – everything comes together to blend into a pleasant experience. The origin of the name seems to have come from a Swedish man, Per Henrick Ling, who utilized this mixed method style of massage to ease aches and pains from his rheumatism.
What Makes Swedish Massage So Different?
Every effective massage is designed to successfully achieve the goal of promoting healing and relaxation. The method by which the goal is achieved is what changes between massage types. What makes Swedish massage so different is the use of long strokes that stimulate an entire muscle. In most cases, the use of oil is more advantageous than the use of massage lotion because the slickness of the oil allows for more fluid motion in these long strokes.
Long strokes are simply modified in their intensity, duration, and pressure to address specific aspects of promoting muscular healing. A Swedish massage with heavy pressure will affect deep tissue, and that’s where some overlap between Swedish massages and deep tissue massages come into play. Often times, a deep tissue massage will utilize Swedish stroking techniques, but with a much heavier hand. Since deep tissue is, by definition, deeper below the skin, the only way to reach that tissue is with very firm pressure. Many people find deep tissue massages to be too painful, making a firm Swedish massage a more comfortable alternative that achieves the same goal.
Swedish massages utilize variations of strokes, and the body responds to the pressure, duration, and speed of those strokes in different ways. Long, quick strokes stimulate blood flow to tissue. Gentle, slow, topical strokes promote general relaxation. The technique of delivering the massage largely depends on what the massage is intended to address.
Most of the time, massage therapists use a variety of techniques. Circular pressure and kneading work in conjunction with long strokes to ease the discomfort of “knots”, or especially sore areas of a muscle. Many massage therapists will bend or stretch the affected limb during the massage.
What Does A Swedish Massage Do?
Prenatal massages are designed to ease the aches and pains common in expecting mothers. Sports massages are designed to treat areas of the body where athletic people are most likely to incur overuse or strain injuries relating to physical activity. Swedish massages are designed to give you a well rounded healing and relaxation experience. That’s exactly why they’re among the most popular massage offering. Anyone from anywhere will be able to feel positive effects from a Swedish massage, no matter their specific concerns.
In addition to physical benefits, massage comes with mental benefits. Massage helps to curb stress hormones and promote happy hormones. That’s why so many businesspeople utilize massage – an hour here and there to help melt away the stress helps them feel and do their best when they get back to the office. Most people report more restful sleep following a massage since it’s easier for the body to enter a fully relaxed state.
How Often Should I Get A Swedish Massage?
When you’re hungry, you need to eat. You’ll feel fine for a while, but you’re going to get hungry again later. Massage is a similar principal. You’ll feel the effects from a massage almost immediately. The rush of positive endorphins and the newness of your extended range of motion will likely carry on for a few days. Like with most things, you’re going to need to come back to maintain the positive after effects.
The necessary frequency will differ from person to person. People using massage to treat a specific or recurring type of discomfort may need massages more frequently than someone who is simply looking to maintain a great state of health. Your massage therapist will be able to advise you of an ideal timetable.
Booking Your First Swedish Massage
Our amazing massage therapists would be happy to introduce you to the wonders of Swedish massage. You can book an appointment with Greentoes online or by phone. We’d love to help you feel your best.