The effleurage technique in Swedish massage is necessary to prepare the skin for the following gestures. It involves sliding the tips of the fingers (or the palms of the hands) from bottom to top, making circular movements. Both hands should be gently placed flat. In general, this is the first technique performed during a massage session. This gesture is also practiced at the end of the session to put the body back to rest. This technique has the advantage of establishing a relationship of trust between the masseur and the person being massaged.
Friction is truly a deep massage gesture. A real source of well-being, friction is recommended to untie knots. With the fingertips, this technique consists of rubbing the skin more or less intensely. The intensity depends on the desired result and the preferences of the massaged person. This action has many benefits. It helps to act on the muscles and joints. It also optimizes blood and lymphatic flows.
Kneading is usually done just after effleurage or friction. Depending on the desired intensity, this gesture can act superficially or deeply. It is often recommended for the drainage of accumulated fat, but also for the stimulation of lymphatic and blood flow. It restores suppleness and elasticity to the skin. As the name suggests, kneading involves kneading the skin. Hands flat and thumbs apart, it's about taking flesh and twisting.
Percussion is a Swedish massage technique that reactivates blood circulation. It requires firmness and flexibility. The gestures are relatively simple, but require a certain rigor. It involves hammering the skin (gently) with closed but flexible fists. Gestures should be light and regular. Percussion is ideal for fighting cellulite. This technique is mainly performed on fleshy and muscular areas. It is essential to avoid bony areas, varicose veins and scars.
The vibration includes many gestures that consist of shaking, hammering or tapping the massaged. The vibration is renowned for the relaxation it provides to the massaged person. It also promotes blood circulation. This gesture requires an excellent technique on the part of the practitioner so as not to injure the person being massaged. Many specific devices replace or complement the practitioner's hands, even in spas. Like the previous four Swedish massage techniques, vibration is one of the best known.
