Effleurage – The Massage Technique

Effleurage Massage
This entry is part [part not set] of 13 in the series Learn Massage

Effleurage is a light massage technique performed in such way that it does not attempt to move the muscles beneath. It is also called gliding. Effleurage is the most used massage movement, it usually starts and ends a massage session and is used as a linking technique between other techniques. Effleurage can be used on any massaged area of the body. Effleurer means in French to touch very lightly, to brush. Despite of the name, the effleurage technique is not necessarily a brush like stroke.

Tapotement or Percussion Massage Technique

Pummeling - Fist Tapotement
This entry is part [part not set] of 13 in the series Learn Massage

Tapotement is Swedish massage technique consisting of rhythmic percussion movements, administered with the edge of the hand, loose fists, cupped hand, or the fingers. Tapotement is performed in a rhythmic way, with fast pace, usually alternating hands. 
The term Tapotement comes from the French word “tapoter” which means to tap. Tapotement is very often referred to as massage percussion.

Nerve Strokes Massage Technique (Feathering)

This entry is part [part not set] of 13 in the series Learn Massage

Nerve strokes or feathering is a fingertip massage technique that uses very light pressure on the body. Nerve Strokes are considered a light effleurage, (the French term effleurer describes better nerve strokes than the massage gliding), can be performed on almost any permitted part of the body.

How To Create Massage Ambiance

This entry is part [part not set] of 13 in the series Learn Massage

Massage Needs the Proper Ambiance Tips to Make Your Client Comfortable During Massage It is very important for a therapist to ensure the proper atmosphere during the massage session. This is an extremely important sequence of the session and it begins the second you speak, or you meet your new customer. There are a few … Read more

Massage Contraindications and Rules for Giving Massage

Photo by "Bakerdav :-)"
This entry is part [part not set] of 13 in the series Learn Massage

Things to avoid when you give a Massage Massage is perceived as the most non-harmful medical practice and it is one of the most risk free medical procedures. However, there are situations when we should not give a massage or ask a physician’s opinion before doing it. Conditions in which Massage Is Contraindicated The massage … Read more

Massage Contraindications

This entry is part [part not set] of 13 in the series Learn Massage

Massage is perceived as one of the safest medical practices, with the least risks involved. However, there are situations when massage contraindicated because it would worsen an existing condition. Sometimes the advice of a physician should be asked for a massage.

The Importance of Touch

This entry is part [part not set] of 13 in the series Learn Massage

Touch is extremely important in our life, not only because it allows us to explore the world beyond sight or hearing, but because it’s an amazing communication tool. Massage permits us to explore unknown territories within us.

Massage Techniques Glossary

This entry is part 13 of 13 in the series Learn Massage

The Swedish massage is the basis of all modern massage therapy variations. It is often called Classic Massage. Various techniques used in a Swedish massage don’t sound English and for many of us their meaning is mysterious. Even English terms are hard to understand for many of us.