A Choice between Swedish and Ayurvedic Massage Methods
Various influences in massage therapy have cropped up leading to the
creation of several methods that differ in techniques but offer the same
health benefits. The Swedish and Ayurvedic massage both have different
origins and use contrasting styles but contribute a lot to achieve a
healthy and relaxed body. With all the kinds of massage therapy programs
available today, it has become really difficult for people to
choose.
The Swedish Massage, which is also known as the classic or
traditional massage is the most common massage therapy method and is
usually preferred by the majority of people. It is characterized by long
and flowing strokes which relax muscles, improve joint flexibility and aid
in better circulation.
The first stroke is known as effleurage,
involves long, gliding strokes from the neck down to the base of the spine
or from the shoulder down to the fingertips. It is also done on the limbs
with all strokes directed toward the heart to aid blood and lymphatic
flow. The therapist uses his whole hand or a thumb pad. This technique is
done for familiarization of the person's body
Next is petrissage
that consists of the gentle lifting of muscles up and away from the bones,
then rolling and squeezing them, with a gentle pressure. It generally
involves rolling, squeezing, or pressing the muscles to enhance deeper
circulation. It increases circulation through eliminating toxins from
muscle and nerve tissue.
Friction, the third technique and the most
forceful one is characterized by deep circular movements using fingertips
applied near bony areas and joints and it relaxes the muscle fiber which
enhances flexibility in muscles and joints.
After friction, another
technique called tapotement is done. Tapotement is a series of quick
forceful movements made by striking or tapping the muscles with the hand.
It can be applied with a closed fist, fingertips and the edge of the hand.
It releases tension and relieves muscle cramps.
Lastly, the
therapist uses vibration or shaking that entails the pressing of hands on
the back or limbs and shaking in a rapid motion for a few moments. It
improves circulation and muscle contraction and is beneficial to people
with low-back pain.
On the other hand, Ayurvedic massage originated
from India and its aim is to create harmony and balance within the
individual and it aids in the removal of toxins and rejuvenation of the
body. It was not practiced publicly until Indian practitioners decided to
roam around and give muscle, joint and back massages
Ayurvedic
massage is based on a special system that includes the knowledge of
Ayurvedic and Greek systems of medicine which is focused on Ayurvedic
doshas and marmas or pressure points. Muslim massage techniques were also
adapted in this system.
Ayurvedic massage techniques uses specific
oils that suit your dosha and depends on your being. One is the
Abhyanga-Garshana which comprises of skin brushing followed by an oil
massage, Udwarthanam which is a slimming massage that uses herbal powders
and the Ayurvedic foot massage which is a deep massage where the therapist
uses his feet.
Now with enough knowledge on both Swedish and
Ayurvedic massage, a person has of course the privilege to choose among
the two which best suits his/her style of relaxation. But with both
massages having unique techniques, the choosing part can be a little
tricky though.
Get expert advice about massage therapy at http://www.articlefog.com/category-massage-therapy.htm.
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Article Source: www.ArticleFog.com.
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