Massage 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 best massage chair recliners have integrated the 6 elements of Swedish massage into their chairs. These premier massage chair brands use a combination of electro-mechanical systems driven by sophisticated software to deliver the Swedish massage effectively. Whether it is the massage rollers performing Effleurage or Tapottement performed with a rhythmic tapping action, these massage chairs have evolved in sophistication and effectivness. Of course, a massage chair recliner does not tire, so relief is only the push of a button away.
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.
Swedish massage has come along way from the days of Henrik Ling. Mr. Ling would be amazed that the techniques he pioneered have been engineered into the robotic massage chairs of today. Many of the same benefits provided by his pioneering efforts can be found in these mechanical masseuses. However, Mr. Ling found the real benefits of Swedish massage when it was performed on a routine basis. Sporadic visits to the Spa are not as effective as periodic application. If you are looking for Swedish massage techniques, a massage chair recliner is an excellent way to perform on a routine basis.
