What is the proper direction for massage?

Author: Marie Dietrich  |  Last update: Sunday, June 22, 2025

For example, in Swedish massage, long, gliding strokes are typically applied in the direction of the heart to promote blood circulation and relaxation. In deep tissue massage, firmer pressure is applied against the muscle fibers, usually in the opposite direction of the muscle fibers, to alleviate tension and knots.

What direction should the massage be given?

Pressure is sustained throughout the stroke and is always toward the heart to encourage venous return. On the return stroke, the hands should maintain light contact and avoid the same path taken by the upward stroke.

Which direction is best for massage?

As for the direction of your massage, ``A good rule of thumb is upward and outward,'' says Crumm. Not because you're trying to train your face in that direction! It just helps to move along lymph and generally de-puff you.

Do you massage toward or away from the heart?

The effleurage technique increases circulation around the body by applying upwards strokes towards the heart. Improved blood circulation allows more cellular exchange to happen in the tissues. Increased blood exchanges provide more oxygen nutrients into cells.

What is the proper direction for massage Milady?

What is the direction of movement of a massage? it is always from the insertion of the muscle toward its origin. What is the insertion? is the portion of the muscle at the more movable attachment (where it is attached to another muscle or to a movable joint or bone.)

Effleurage

Which direction is clockwise for massage?

Always do the massage from right to left, in a clockwise motion. 1 Lay down on the floor or on a firm mattress. ease the tension of the abdomen and reduce any pain you may have when pressing on tender spots. moderate pressure from under the left ribcage down to the front of the left hipbone, 10 times.

Which direction should you massage arms?

Start with your shoulder, gently stretch the skin, pushing the fluid upwards and release. Shift the hand that is performing the massage down to your upper arm. Gently stretch the skin, pushing the fluid upwards and release. Repeat this upward motion on your forearm (elbow to wrist).

What direction of movement should massage follow?

In massage, the movement should always go from the insertion of the muscle towards its origin. This technique helps promote blood circulation and reduce tension in the muscles. Correctly understanding these anatomical terms is crucial for effective massage therapy.

What are the four T's of massage?

The four T's of massage are:
  • Skin/body temperature.
  • Muscle/facia tone.
  • Muscle or tissue texture, and finally.
  • Tenderness to palpation – which is subjective to the patient.

What is the first rule of massage?

1. Slow down when you need to. Speed up when you don't need to slow down.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

What not to do while getting a massage?

Here are some examples of what you, as the client, should never do! :
  1. Don't joke if this is a “happy ending" massage or make any sexual comments. ...
  2. Don't get sexually excited, it's inappropriate. ...
  3. Don't break wind. ...
  4. Avoid talking too much. ...
  5. Don't use your phone. ...
  6. Don't be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

What is proper massage etiquette?

Privacy – The therapist will either leave the room or otherwise provide privacy while you undress. A sheet or towel is provided for draping during the massage and the therapist will uncover only the part of your body being massaged, ensuring that modesty is respected at all times.

Should we massage upwards or downwards?

The answer is both. If you're aiming to lift and smooth the neck, particularly the centre, then upwards is the way to go. However, if you're aiming to work on puffiness along the jaw, and lymphatic drainage, then use a downwards and feather light action down the sides of the neck.

What are 3 instances when massage is not recommended?

Certain skin conditions, such as open wounds, burns, rashes, or contagious skin infections (like impetigo or fungal infections), should not be treated with massage. Even non-contagious skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be aggravated by massage if not handled carefully.

What direction of the body should you massage?

The direction of massage is also important, and all trained massage therapists will always massage in the direction of the heart, and thus with the natural blood flow (this is called the 'venous flow'), as well as assisting the blood flow throughout the body.

How do massage therapists know where tension is?

Massage therapists use various tools, such as their hands and fingers, to locate knots within the muscles. They will often start by gently palpating the area to feel for any tight or hard areas. Once they have found an area of tension, they may apply specific techniques designed to release it.

What are the 7 principles of massage?

Key principles of massage
  • Circulation of Blood. ...
  • Movement of Lymphatic Fluid. ...
  • Release of Toxins. ...
  • Release of Tension. ...
  • Structure and Function Are Interdependent. ...
  • Enhancement of All Bodily Systems. ...
  • Mind/Body Integration. ...
  • Reduction of Stress.

Where should a massage therapist not touch?

Never touch the client's genitals or anus. Clients can only provide explicit consent to have their genital area and gluteal cleft exposed for the purpose of Massage Therapy during childbirth.

What is the direction of massage?

For example, in Swedish massage, long, gliding strokes are typically applied in the direction of the heart to promote blood circulation and relaxation. In deep tissue massage, firmer pressure is applied against the muscle fibers, usually in the opposite direction of the muscle fibers, to alleviate tension and knots.

How do I drain my lymphatic myself?

Massage your chest to aid in lymph drainage from your neck and chest to your lymph nodes under your arms. Continue down toward your ankles. Stroke upward and down through the ankles and feet. Finish the massage by gently pushing the fluid in your toes upward with your fingers.

What direction should massage flow from?

Massage movements should be focused on using pressure so that the direction of blood flow is moved away from the heart, toward the extremities. Most massage techniques are based on Swedish massage movements.

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