| Techniques specifically designed to relax  muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and  rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.  The  main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and  release toxins from the muscles. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from  muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other  metabolic wastes.  It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It  stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable.  It reduces  stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for  stress management. |