What is Swedish Massage?
Swedish Massage is what most people think of as "regular"
massage. It combines effleurage (long strokes) and
petrissage (kneading) to relax muscles. Additionally,
percussion and friction can be used to "wake the body up."
Will I be dressed or covered during a Massage?
It is helpful if the client is undressed, but the option is
to undress to your level of comfort. You are always under a
sheet and only the part of you getting massaged is
uncovered. The primary areas where clothing causes the most
interference are the shoulders and back.
Is Massage supposed to be uncomfortable?
Most massages feel either relaxing and soothing or
invigorating, but they are not usually supposed to hurt.
There are a few exceptions, like triggerpoint therapy and
some kinds of deep-tissue work, which can be very
uncomfortable at times. A properly trained Licensed Massage
Therapist will monitor your comfort level. At any time
during a session you should always insist that a Therapsist
reduce the pressure if it exceeds your comfort level.
What is Sports Massage?
Sports Massage is exactly what it sounds like - massage
specifically designed to aid athletes in getting prepared
for competition or to soothe the sore muscles that come
from strenuous competition or practice. Deep compressive
strokes are used to flush out the build up of toxins.
What is stretching good for?
Stretching is an amazing way to loosen up tight muscles and
joints. Active stretching (where you assist) or passive
stretching (where you do not) are both terrific ways to
work out sore points or 'kinks' in shoulders, lower back or
legs. Stretching is a normal part of Sports Massage and may
be added to any Massage.
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After the Massage:
* Drink lots of water. This helps the rid body oftoxins
that you were able to release during the massage.
* Plan to take the first 20 minutes after a massage
lightly. For example, go on a short walk or sit quietly.
* This allows the massage to settle nicely into the body.
After many massages, a nice warm bath or shower is very
refreshing and maintains the effects of the session.