How to Massage

How to Massage
Believe it or not, there is an art and science to knowing how to give a really good massage. Yes, some of knowing how to massage is simply following intuition and feel, but there are also specific techniques that have been developed over time that can also help. In fact the world of massage has blossomed considerably to include a wide variety of rather new touch modalities. These would include, but not limited to, things like Rolfing, Myofascial Release, and Cranio Sacral. These massage modalities have only been around for the most part since the 60's and 70's. So understanding that there are numerous different type of modalities out there, the term "massage" becomes more general and more vague. Which type of massage, specifically? Then there is the unique added value of therapists putting their own unique spin on the massage. The chances are very good you'll never get OR give the same massage twice. So considering all that, what are the basics for how to massage? Well the fundamental basics of massage are typically derived from a 'swedish' style of massage. And in the 'swedish' tradition, there are some basic strokes like : Effleurage - a gentle smooth gliding stroke for applying oil and warming up the tissue Petrissage - which is a kneading stroke to help lift and move the tissue Tapotement - these involves different forms of tapping, slapping cupping, and lightly pounding the tissue. Usually in a quick, light format. But massage has evolved and exanded since the original "swedish" format. And as our understanding of the the role "fascia" (connective tissue that runs from head to toe) grows and we learn more about the importance of the fascial system, then massage and related modalities will continue to evolve. Other things that can help to learn how to massage better include a basic understanding of anatomy and when, where and when NOT to massage as well. Having a thorough understanding of different oils, setting your intention, and creating a safe, healing space are also other factors. We go over these in much more detail in the massage lessons in our beginners's course, How to Massage. Check it out and maybe your massage awareness, touch and skill level might jump up to a higher level.
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Believe it or not, there is an art and science to knowing how to give a really good massage. Yes, some of knowing how to massage is simply following intuition and feel, but there are also specific techniques that have been developed over time that can also help.

In fact the world of massage has blossomed considerably to include a wide variety of rather new touch modalities. These would include, but not limited to, things like Rolfing, Myofascial Release, and Cranio Sacral. These massage modalities have only been around for the most part since the 60's and 70's.

So understanding that there are numerous different type of modalities out there, the term "massage" becomes more general and more vague. Which type of massage, specifically? Then there is the unique added value of therapists putting their own unique spin on the massage. The chances are very good you'll never get OR give the same massage twice.

So considering all that, what are the basics for how to massage? Well the fundamental basics of massage are typically derived from a 'swedish' style of massage. And in the 'swedish' tradition, there are some basic strokes like :

Effleurage - a gentle smooth gliding stroke for applying oil and warming up the tissue

Petrissage - which is a kneading stroke to help lift and move the tissue

Tapotement - these involves different forms of tapping, slapping cupping, and lightly pounding the tissue. Usually in a quick, light format.

But massage has evolved and exanded since the original "swedish" format. And as our understanding of the the role "fascia" (connective tissue that runs from head to toe) grows and we learn more about the importance of the fascial system, then massage and related modalities will continue to evolve.

Other things that can help to learn how to massage better include a basic understanding of anatomy and when, where and when NOT to massage as well.

Having a thorough understanding of different oils, setting your intention, and creating a safe, healing space are also other factors.

We go over these in much more detail in the massage lessons in our beginners's course, How to Massage. Check it out and maybe your massage awareness, touch and skill level might jump up to a higher level.