The Five Basic Massage Techniques

There are five basic massage strokes are as follows:

Effleurage:  Long gliding strokes that begin at the neck and run down to the base of the spine and/or gliding strokes that run from the shoulder or hip down to the finger or toe tips.  When performing effleurage, one should aim the strokes toward the heart to help increase blood and lymphatic flow.

Petrissage:  The moderate lifting, squeezing and rolling of the muscles up and away from the bones.  Petrissage normally engages compression and kneading to allow for deeper blood circulation.  With increased circulation, toxins are more easily removed from the nerve and muscle tissues.

Friction:  This technique involves deep circular and oblique movements and is performed with the thumbs or fingertips.  These deep strokes are applied to bony structures and joints on the body; i.e. the lateral sides of the spine.  Friction is the deepest of all the massage strokes and is used for loosening knots and healing adhesions (bound muscle fibers).  The breaking down of adhesions allows for better range of motion.

Tapotement:  this technique is applied briskly in tapping, pounding, cupping, beating and or striking motions.  Tapotement is ideal for muscle tension, spasms and cramping.  A round of tapotement leaves the body feeling refreshed and revitalized.  If done frequently, it has even been known to break down fat cells in the body!  Imagine that, get a massage to feel good and firm up - all at the same time!

Vibration or Shaking:  This stroke permits muscle contractions and increases blood circulation in the body.  The technique is performed by placing the hands on the limbs or on the back and then repeatedly shaking or jostling the muscles for several seconds.  Vibration or shaking feels really good and is especially beneficial for lower back pain or frozen hip or shoulder syndrome.

Nerve Stroke:  Considered the additional, unwritten, massage stroke.  It is performed at the end of the massage session by gently running the fingertips over the areas that were previously worked.  Nerve stroke sends a soothing and comforting message to the brain and leaves the body in a deep, relaxed state.