WHAT IS RUSSIAN MASSAGE?

 

Russian massage is a massage therapy technique developed in the former Soviet Union, integrating elements of sports massage with the relaxing techniques of therapeutic massage. Contrary to the usual sports massage practices, however, Russian Massage involves slower, softer motions, with a focus on the use of friction to generate heat within the body. This, combined with vibration, is employed to ease muscle pain and stiffness. It also relieves mental stress, along with providing other benefits. If you wish, we add Honey which acts as a humectant. When added to a lotion or oil, it softens and hydrates the skin. It also contains many vitamins (ie C and B6) and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium, which will be absorbed into the skin.

 

HOW IS RUSSIAN MASSAGE PERFORMED?

 

There are three main phases to a Russian massage and these apply to all patients. Only the specifics of each massage will be different depending on individual needs.

The first phase is the slow, gentle stage. Our Russian therapist applies gentle massage techniques to the body, preparing it for the deeper manipulation; this phase is important for the muscles to rest and the body be placed in a great state of relaxation.

The second phase involves faster, deeper, and harder movements to the body. This is the most active phase as it involves intense manipulation of the body muscles to relieve tension and pain. In the third stage our therapist reverts back to the gentler, slower techniques. The slow movements are used to complete the session and to promote relaxation once again.

The actual massage techniques used throughout the three stages include stretching, gliding, kneading, vibration, and friction. Most distinctively, Russian Massage involves a slapping technique known as "percussion,” which loosens muscular adhesions. The amount of pressure applied during these techniques depends on the patient’s body state and comfort level. The application of techniques will differ from person to person and the depth of the pressure ranges from light, to medium, to deep.