Small, postcard-sized advertisements in seedy shop windows have given massage a rather bad name. However, not all the masseurs and masseuses and not all the massage parlours now open offer pleasures of a purely transitory kind. The truth is that when done by experienced hands, massage can help ease tension, soothe tight muscles and even relieve pain.
It is important to remember that massage should not be done on inflamed or damaged skin and that it should not be attempted without the use of oils or a light dusting of talc or baby powder to make the skin more malleable.
There are quite a number of different types of massage available. The best known are as follows:
1 Effleurage Soothing massage movements are usually described as effleurage. The flat of the hand is used to stroke the muscles and the aim is to improve the circulation and prepare the muscles for more aggressive massage.
2 Friction massage: Friction massage involves rubbing the skin with the fingers.
3 Petrissage this involves pinching, kneading and rolling the skin. In this way, larger muscles are relaxed and the general skin condition is said to be improved.
4 Swedish massage the phrase 'Swedish massage' always seems to attract giggles and guffaws but I don't really know why. There really isn't any difference between 'Swedish' massage and 'Polish' massage.
5 Tapotement: This form of massage involves beating, whipping, slapping and tapping the skin in order to stimulate and tighten it.
6 Vibration massage Involves a delicate tapping and circling of the skin with the fingertips to stimulate the circulation. Electric vibrators are also sometimes used. There is a risk that the subcutaneous tissues may be damaged if the massage is not done carefully. This type of massage is often used to relieve tension'. Some clinics offer a special type of vibratory massage which, among other things, is said to stimulate the flow of digestive juices. I do not recommend this.
7 Viennese facials: Facial massage is a favorite in beauty parlours. If you go to one of these places you can usually choose between French, Japanese and Viennese massage the style of massage may differ but there won't be much difference in the end result. Facial massage can produce temporary improvement in the tone and appearance of the face but it will not last.