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Benefits of Effleurage Massage

Effleurage massage, also called stroking massage, is a famous massaging technique and is one of the most common massage techniques that is used in Swedish massage. Effleurage is one of the best ways of relaxing the body and preventing muscle fatigue.

Effleurage massaging techniques. Effleurage involves a light gliding motion which is applied to the body part to be massaged by the masseuse or the masseur using his or her hands or forearms. It is characterized by the application of medium but continuous pressure to the body. If effleurage massage is done lightly, it has a soothing and relaxing effect on the body. If performed with more pressure, it improves the circulation of blood to the skin cells of the body.

Light effleurage massage should include the continuous but very light touch of the entire hand on the skin. Avoid tugging or pressurizing the skin. The massage strokes should be light and in the direction of the heart. Another common stroke is performed by making a “V” using both hands. This technique relaxes the legs, back bone and other depressions in the body through the use of smooth and rhythmic strokes. It helps in stretching the muscles, minimizing tiredness and increasing flexibility. However, in pressurized effleurage massage, the pressure of effleurage is strong and is mostly applied according to the requirements of the client. The massage therapist should have soft and pliable hands that can provide comfort to the client. He or she can use the flat surface of the palm, or the fingertips to give horizontal strokes, vertical gliding strokes and other similar variations of common effleurage techniques.

How does it help? Effleurage has many variations, each with its own set of benefits. Let us take a look at some of them.

• Long and slow strokes help to relax the body.
• Shorter and faster strokes help in stimulating the muscles of the body.
• Pressurized effleurage massage increases the circulation of blood to the skin.
• It also helps in alleviating depression. Effleurage with a massage oil not only improves blood circulation to the skin but also help to stimulate the flow of lymph and the working of the venous system of the body.
• Light effleurage is used for the treatment of injuries in the early stages of the healing process.
• Light effleurage is also helpful in relieving pain due to back bone injuries and or over work.

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