Massage techniques

Massage techniques involve various strokes like effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), friction (deep circular rubbing), tapotement (tapping), and vibration, often combined in styles like Swedish (relaxation) or Deep Tissue (chronic pain) to manipulate muscles and tissues for relaxation, pain relief, and improved circulation.

Therapists use these basics with varying pressure and rhythm, from gentle flowing strokes to intense deep tissue work, tailoring the approach to the client's needs.

Basic Techniques (The Five Fundamentals)
Effleurage: Long, smooth, gliding strokes to warm up tissue, spread lotion, and transition between techniques.

Petrissage: Kneading, lifting, squeezing, and rolling the muscles to release tension.

Friction: Deep, circular movements to break down scar tissue and increase blood flow.

Tapotement: Rhythmic tapping, drumming, or hacking for stimulation and toning.

Vibration: Rapid shaking or trembling to relax muscles.

Popular Massage Styles & Their Focus
Swedish Massage: Uses gentle to moderate pressure with long strokes, kneading, and circular movements for general relaxation.

Deep Tissue Massage: Focuses on deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue, using slow strokes and intense pressure for chronic tension.

Sports Massage: Targets athletes, often incorporating stretching and specific techniques for injury prevention and recovery.

Trigger Point Therapy: Applies focused pressure to tight knots (trigger points) to relieve referred pain.

Hot Stone Massage: Uses heated stones placed on the body to warm and relax muscles.

Key Principles for Giving Massage
Warm-up: Start with lighter strokes like effleurage to warm muscles.

Communicate: Ask the receiver about pressure levels to ensure comfort.

Flow: Maintain continuous contact with smooth transitions between strokes.

Hydrate: Drink water after a massage to help flush out toxins.