Massage Chair Recliner Simulates Swedish Massage Treatment
Written by Steve Esquire on November 19th, 2008Massage chair recliners have come a long way over the years from simple vibrating chairs to very sophisticated massage chairs with heat, music and various massage therapies. One of the most basic massage techniques is known as Swedish massage or classic massage. The Swedish massage was developed in the 18th century by Henrik Ling. Swedish massage is very effective in allowing the body to absorb more oxygen.
Stress hits us in various ways in our daily lives. With the various challenges we have, we put stress on various parts of the body. In general, stress impacts us mentally by causing thoughts of fear. This fear translates into physical tension as the flight or fight reactions stir up our muscles for action. This physical tension builds up in the body. It is further sustained by how we mentally deal with stress, which for many is to deny it. These physical and mental stresses have a cumulative effect as it builds up in the body.
Swedish massage was developed to help relieve the daily build up of stress in the body. The Swedish massage technique can alleviate pain, aches and soreness. Swedish massage is considered one the most basic massage styles and helps to alleviate and remove the tension, anxiety and pain on a periodic basis to improve well being.
There are 6 main elements that constitute Swedish massage. These elements include tapottement, effleurage, petrissage, friction, vibration and traction. Tapottement makes use of both tapping and chopping to loosen muscles. Effleurage makes use of long sweeping strokes along muscles. Petrissage makes use of kneading and squeezing actions. Friction is used to apply heat helping blood flow and muscles relaxation. Vibration makes use of shaking to help loosen muscles and alleviate tension. Traction makes use of pulling and stretching the major muscles.
The premier massage chair brands now offer these 6 elements of Swedish massage. The sophisticated software runs the chairs electro-mechanical systems delivering effective Swedish massage. The integration of heating elements, air compression systems, mechanical massage rollers and even music makes for one unique experience. These robotic masseuses perform all 6 elements of Swedish massage on demand.
Not all massage chair recliners can perform all 6 techniques. All techniques are performed to different degrees and can vary from model to model and from manufacturer to manufacturer. Omega Massage’s Montage Elite massage chair and the Panasonic Real Pro Elite have the most comprehensive Swedish massage techniques. The Montage Elite is the most comprehensive Swedish because it has full body heat capabilities where the Panasonic Real Pro Elite does not. Try them both and decide for yourself.
Mr. Henrik Ling pioneered the Swedish massage back in the 18th century. He might be amazed to see how his techniques have spread and been replicated by technology into chairs. His pioneering efforts have circled the globe and Swedish massage is the most commonly found massage in spas. The key with Swedish massage is to release the build up of stress, which means getting a Swedish massage periodically. Otherwise, the build up goes uncheck or is relieved only sporadically. A massage chair recliner can perform a Swedish massage on a daily or routine basis in the convenience of home.
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