We Will, We Will Rock You...

6/2/2018

...With Our Swedish Massage!

​Swedish Massage is the most common type of massage modality performed by massage therapists around the country. It is often referred to as Spa Massage, Therapeutic Massage, or Relaxation Massage. This is because one of the common strokes used in Swedish Massage is a long, gliding movement directing blood towards the heart. The gliding motion is soothing and calming to the muscles and the mind.

​However, there is much more to a Swedish Massage than simple relaxation. Utilizing the techniques of effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, vibration (rocking), and friction, Swedish Massage is very beneficial for promoting elevated amounts of oxygen in the blood, decreasing muscle tension, and toxin levels, increasing range of motion, as well as minimizing the symptoms of pain. Additionally, a study commissioned by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and published in the New York Times, found that volunteers who received a 45-minute Swedish Massage experienced significant decreases in levels of the stress hormone cortisol as well as arginine vasopressin - a hormone that can lead to cortisol production. Volunteers also had an increase in the number of lymphocytes, white blood cells that are part of the immune system, and a boost in the immune cells that may help fight colds and flu. Swedish Massage really is a tremendous health tool for mind and body wellness. Literally.

​At​ Berkana BodyWorks, we like to incorporate other modalities into our Swedish sessions. Having learned many styles and methods through the years, utilizing additional techniques with our Swedish Massage, such as Trigger Point Therapy, Sports Massage, Massage Cupping, CranioSacral Therapy, and others helps to get the most benefit in a session for our clients. That's why communication is vitally important. Keeping us updated on your current health status helps us to help you be at your physical best. Knowing what's going on with your body enables us to customize your sessions for optimal value and efficacy. Together, we can work towards achieving your personal health and wellness goals.