Swedish Massage: Remedy Hurts Sooner

How great! I just had my first (but not last) Swedish massage. I only recently discovered what many Americans, as well as Europeans have known for a couple of centuries. Now that I have had one, I know the benefits. This is more recent a massage than some of the more ancient ones. The technique was developed in Stockholm, Sweden, just a few centuries ago. It relieves tension by rubbing muscles in the direction of the blood flow. This is in order to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood.

Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue. This is done to enhance function and promote relaxation and well-being. If you are looking to modern medicine to cure your issues, maybe you are looking in the wrong place. The art of massage dates way back, back to over 3000 years. It has been documented by the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians. They all applied forms of massage for many ailments. Hippocrates even wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. Are you interested in finding how this art of massage is practiced? Many, many, many methods, over 250 to be precise, are used.

As more people learn about the benefits of Swedish massage therapy, employment in this field is growing. As independent contractors, massage therapists usually have their own equipment which consists of special massage tables and chairs are used to position clients during massages. A typical commercial massage table has an easily cleaned, heavily padded surface, and a horseshoe-shaped head support that allows the client to breathe easily while lying face down and can be stationary or portable. This is cleaned between massages, keeping everything very hygienic. An orthopedic pillow or bolster can be used to correct body positioning.

There are five basic strokes of Swedish massage which are sliding, kneading, tapping, friction and vibration. Pain relief and joint stiffness, as well as poor circulation can be helped with this. Lotion can be used to stimulate the skin and reduce friction.

If you have ever had a body massage, you will know that in general, specific areas are targeted. The difference between regular massages and Swedish is that Swedish targets both body and mind. We will feel less stress and more harmony. We will feel like our bodies are in sync. This assists the body in healing both mental and physical scars. The theory behind Swedish massage is that it is for everyone. Even pregnant women.

Swedish massage is pretty much for everyone, even pregnant women. We know how much discomfort we are in when we are pregnant. We have problems breathing. These symptoms can be eased, possibly eliminated. Throughout my three pregnancies, my pain could have been eased if only I had known about this. This would have been a great gift to give me at a baby shower. Keep in mind that massages can help eliminate waste products from the mother through the lymphatic and circulatory system, thus giving the mother more energy. Do you have a baby shower to go to? Remember, check your local spa. I bet they offer gift certificates for Swedish massage therapies for pregnant women!

Pregnancy Massage: Alleviate Soreness Due to Pregnancy More Effectively

In the past 9 years, I have had 3 normal pregnancies and healthy children. While the pregnancies were all normal and complication-free, I had all the different feelings going through both my mind and body. Between muscle and joint pain, there is also weight gain (in my case, this was quite substantial) causing physical discomfort. I never considered that there was any way of gaining some relief. I now know there is! It is a pregnancy massage. I recently discovered (maybe too late for me) that this is an option when pregnant, in most circumstances.

When pregnant, we all know that we must, not only take care of ourselves, but also of the new baby growing within us. We have many feelings, some of them stress, anxiety, depression, as well as joy of the wonders and challenges ahead. All these feelings are normal, and can be alleviated a bit, unbeknownst to us through a pregnancy massage.

So many issues can be helped by going to a certified pregnancy specialist, also known as a pre-natal specialist. The specialist will have special pillows to support the baby, and will know how to properly position the pregnant woman. Deep tissue massage is not appropriate during a pregnancy massage, but can be great at more appropriate times.

Clothing is optional, some ladies prefer clothing (bra and underwear) others prefer towels or sheets for coverage. One important point is that the personal OB/GYN knows that you are considering pregnancy massage. These massages are good for when you are in labor, and are a great bonding experience for you and your husband. Massages when pregnant are not associated with miscarriages or any other complications. They are good for the mother and even after the baby is born, massages can often soothe a baby with colic.

Many mothers, myself included, are unaware of the fact that massages are possible, even helpful during pregnancy. I now know that massages can help eliminate waste products from the mother through the lymphatic and circulatory system, thus giving the mother more energy. Massages can also help with swollen ankles and legs, which any pregnant woman will tell you, are very uncomfortable. During my three pregnancies, I had the usual symptoms, ranging from sciatic nerve pain, stress on my spine, legs, even feet! The exhaustion I felt by the third pregnancy could have been reduced.

To have a massage while pregnant feels like it would be great. To know that my physical pain, stress and anxiety, as well as hormonal issues could have been alleviated by something so good for me is comforting. A calming, refreshing massage I will be seeking if blessed with another child I will be sure to look for a certified pregnancy massage therapist and consult my doctor. I will not go through another pregnancy without one!