Swedish Massage Therapy: Relaxation, Pain Relief, and Wellness In One

In spa centres and wellness clinics you must have often heard of and seen, and also would have been suggested, a traditional form of relaxation therapy known as Swedish massage. But what exactly is this Swedish massage? We barely know the appropriate difference or benefit of it, and neither do the executing practitioners explain in detail, and we stare at the menu confused about which indulgence to choose for wellbeing. This particular massage technique involves special strokes involving kneading and rubbing of the body tissues to relieve tension and promote relaxation. The use of this massage dates back to 2700 BCE, when the ancient civilization of China documented it in their scriptures. Egyptians too have depicted massages in their old wall carvings and paintings. But the modern form of Swedish massage was developed by Per Henrik Ling in the early 19th century.

When Should Someone Consider This?

To get holistic balance and bliss, massages have been trending for ages. But there are specific concerns that can be key indicators for this therapy.

• The effleurage of Swedish therapy activates the opioid receptors of pain, relieving the discomfort and reducing the distress.
• The kneading strokes exhibit physiological effects on musculoskeletal complaints and have a therapeutic analgesic effect on the body owing to increased secretion of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and oxytocin.
• The stretch method benefits in improving the range of motion owing to the effect of massage on mesodermal tissue.
• The light petrissage improves digestion and is extremely efficacious in case of neurogenic bowel dysfunction.

What Is The Cost Of A Swedish Massage?

The procedure cost depends on the duration of massage and location. The cost varies from Rs.3000 to Rs.3500 for a single session, and in a package, there is a discount of 20%.

The Science Behind The Amazing Swedish Massage

The amazing therapeutic Swedish therapy, which is a 45-minute massage with tapotement, shaking, vibration and transverse friction, when taken twice a week, improves oxytocin, arginine vasopressin and adrenocorticotropin. Also, even a single session holds the potential to reduce cortisol levels along with cytokines. The effect is similar to taking NSAIDs and works on heart rate too; that can be noticed in EEG as reduced. The 60-minute session considerably increases interleukin concentration and insulin growth factors. Even the immunity can be boosted with this treatment, as it increases the lymphocytes and regulates the cellular functions. This most common technique works on anxiety, which has become an inseparable part of our life. Despite so much technological advancement, this alternative therapy is still a hit and reduces symptoms of blood pressure, headache, stress and depression.

Deep Tissue vs Swedish: Which One Should I Opt For?

• Deep tissue: The strokes offered in a deep tissue massage are more intense and focused targeting the deep connective tissue and muscles.
• Swedish: Strokes offered in Swedish massage are more fluid directed towards overall wellbeing, relaxation and stress relief.
• Deep tissue: Deep tissue therapy can feel discomforting at times because the therapist works on deeper tissues and one can experience mild pain.
• Swedish: Swedish on the other hand is more relaxing and calming experience. It rejuvenates and offers a soothing effect.
• Deep tissue: If you are aiming to treat chronic pain, muscle tightness or postural issues choose this procedure.
• Swedish: On the other hand, if your primary goal is stress relief and relaxation go for Swedish comfort.
• Deep tissue: The right candidate for this powerful therapy is either a runner, an athlete or people who have experienced injuries. This works best on fibromyalgia and lower back pain.
• Swedish: The ideal candidate would be the one who wants to either just stimulate the nerve endings or facilitate improved blood circulation and lymphatic drainage with deep circular movements and passive joint movements.

Myths And Misconceptions Against The Real Benefits

Quite often people opting for Swedish therapy only consider it as a pampering tool with mild and gentle manoeuvres to stimulate the nerve endings on the body. But little do we realise that it has evident health perks against this common myth.

• The most common myth that restricts many guests from proceeding with the session is the idea of getting fully undressed. Wherein the procedure can be executed by keeping you draped decently and taking care of your comfort. So next time if you have any such requirement, please feel free to communicate with your therapist.
• The next common myth pertains to age. Generally, the therapy is thought to be suited for old age or for women seeking gentle hands, but the fact is that it can suit any age group and gender while offering therapeutic benefits to the person.