When you go for a massage at a center or massage clinic, you fully trust your masseur. You know that they use appropriate techniques with well-known names: percussion, palpate-roll… But what do these techniques actually involve? How are they performed, and what are they for?
In this article, I will talk to you about famous and frequently used massage techniques.
Introduction to the most well-known massage techniques
I will introduce to you below the most well-known massage techniques in the field of body care.
- Kneading
As a professional masseur, I use the kneading technique in the following cases:
- To restore flexibility to your skin: under the effect of the massage, it regains its tone and elasticity.
- To induce muscle relaxation: kneading helps to untangle your muscles.
This technique is performed on the larger areas of the body, with the goal of kneading a large fold of tissue. During the kneading session, my hands grasp the fleshy part of the muscles, press it, lift it, and knead it.
It is because it works deeply that the muscles are able to regain their flexibility.
- Effleurage
I practice effleurage at the beginning or end of a session. This method is systematic in a massage because it primarily serves as a gentle way to establish contact. This allows the person receiving the massage time to relax and get used to the massage, as sometimes the first touches can trigger an uncontrollable nervous reaction, somewhat like being tickled.
To practice effleurage, I apply my hands (pre-warmed) flat on your skin, following the muscle mass. Then, they glide slowly and gently over the dermis, giving you time to relax.
- The “palper-rouler” technique
You’ve probably heard of this technique, especially if you’re a woman! Indeed, the “palper-rouler” is often mentioned when talking about methods to combat cellulite. Through its action, it fights water retention and helps eliminate the unsightly “orange peel” skin.
The “palper-rouler” technique is primarily performed on the hips, buttocks, thighs, and abdomen. It involves pinching a fold of skin between the fingers and rolling it. However, it is important to listen carefully to avoid causing pain.
- Percussion (or tapping)
This particularly invigorating technique is frequently used, most often at the end of a session, to help the client gradually wake up. Its action tones the tissues and stimulates blood circulation.
I perform the percussion with clenched fists or with the edge of my hands, tapping slowly on the fleshy parts of the body.
Famous massage techniques to try!
Among the various well-known massage techniques, I could also mention friction, smoothing, or pressure. These methods are widely recognized because they are systematically practiced during professional massages due to their benefits and the well-being they bring.
Now that you have a clearer idea of their functions and know how they are performed, all that’s left is to come and try them at our massage center in Neuchâtel to enjoy their benefits.
