When learning how to give a massage, the first massage techniques you are likely to learn are Swedish massage. It is the most practiced technique among therapists. Although there is some question as to who created the massage techniques used in Swedish massage, the modern version began in early 19th century Sweden.

Per Henrik Ling, who was a fencing master and gymnastics and movement instructor, is most often credited with conceiving the system then known as the Swedish Movement Treatment. The original system included more than just a massage. It included aspects of the ancient Greeks and Romans by drinking mineral water and taking mineral baths while following certain exercise programs. Today, the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) considers it the standard against which all massage therapies are measured.

Unlike the massage techniques we have today in Asia, this style of massage therapy focuses on long, firmly applied strokes. This helps move blood and other body fluids and relaxes muscles. It is believed that it can also help remove toxins from your body. Perhaps that’s why an Australian study found that massage can help speed healing.

In the Swedish style of massage, you will find that effleurage, kneading, and friction massage techniques are primarily used. The rubbing technique is performed with the fingers and flat hand in long, gliding strokes primarily in the direction of the heart. These movements get your circulation moving by increasing blood flow to your muscles, bringing in good nutrients and oxygen and removing toxins, bacteria, and other waste. Movement can also stretch adhesions, which are fibrous matter that binds one muscle to another, usually caused by injury. That is why this style will also be used a lot in sports massage.

The friction is carried out by supporting the palms of the hands and then moving the fingers and thumbs in circles. It’s for the really tough areas like knots or spasms. The kneading technique is easier to visualize if you have ever kneaded bread. The basics are the same with squeezing and rolling muscles and usually apply to the large muscles of the back.

If you are massaging a clothed person, it should be made clear that you will not be using oils. The activities that will be carried out after the massage should also be taken into account. Since oils feel greasy and also hinder the skin’s cooling mechanisms, anyone preparing to be very active (long-distance runners or other sports enthusiasts) should not get an oil massage.

When learning to massage for the first time, it’s probably easiest to start with a cold-pressed vegetable or nut oil. These are easily found these days at your local organic food store. In fact, you can even find some at your local grocery store. Getting one with a pleasant scent will make the experience better for you and whoever is receiving the massage… which could be you too. As you continue to learn how to massage, remember that you may also be the recipient of all your learning.

Copyright 2007 Sandra K.