The Story behind Spanish Massage
Spanish massage is a fairly new technology, which, nevertheless, has already gained popularity in different countries. This is a technique that allows easily work on the skin and muscles, relaxing and at the same time eliminating problems such as overweight, cellulite, swelling, flabbiness and skin flaccidity.
This variety can be divided into two main directions, which are used for different purposes.
- Miotensivnaya massage technique is designed to affect the joints. The fact is that after injuries there is a spasm of muscles around the joints. Thus, a block is formed that restricts freedom of movement. Spanish massage can cope with this problem.
- Neurosedative technique is designed primarily to relieve the emotional and mental stress that negatively affects the body, causing fatigue and sleep disorders, problems with the digestive tract, etc.
In any case, the Spanish massage affects the skin, normalizes the outflow of blood and lymph, positively affects the work of the immune system, excellently relaxes the muscles and, of course, helps to eliminate the consequences of injuries and get rid of excess kilograms
The term “Spanish massage” might be a bit misleading, since many thinks that the method just is a variant of Swedish massage. Swedish massage was developed by a Swedish physiologist Per Henrik Ling in the early 19th century. However, it’s possible that “Spanish massage” could refer to a variation or adaptation of Swedish massage techniques that have evolved in Spain or are practiced by Spanish massage therapists.
Swedish massage typically involves five main strokes:
1. Effleurage: Long, gliding strokes in the direction of blood flow to warm up the muscles and prepare them for deeper massage techniques.
2. Petrissage: Kneading and squeezing motions that help to release tension and improve circulation.
3. Friction: Deep, circular movements that target specific muscle knots or areas of tension.
4. Tapotement: Rapid tapping or percussive movements, like tapping or chopping, to stimulate the muscles and invigorate the body.
5. Vibration: Fine, rapid shaking or vibrating movements to loosen muscles and promote relaxation.
Overall, Swedish massage is known for its ability to promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and increase flexibility. It’s one of the most popular types of massage therapy worldwide and is commonly offered in spas, wellness centers, and massage clinics.
Spanish Massage is not a category at the World Championship in Massage (Swedish Massage is) but most therapists sign up in the Wellness Category in stead.
- Article by Jeppe Tengbjerg (CEO & Founder of the International Massage Association & IMA Academy)
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