Are you ready for more then just a rub?
Let’s Tapo together
You are probably familiar with most strokes I use applies because they are commonly used to warm the tissue, knead the muscles into a softened state, or break up scar tissue caused from previous injury or overuse. But what about that age-old, but less-commonly- used technique where I “beat” on your body with my hands? Have you ever wondered what that is and why I am doing it?
WHAT IS IT?
The massage stroke I’m referring to is called tapotement.
Tapotement comes from the French word tapoter, which means “to tap,” and is a technique used in Swedish massage since the late 19th century. The technique is very literal to the word origin in that it simply involves tapping the body with hands, soft fists, or fingertips.
It is a fast, rhythmic, percussive technique, typically alternating between hands, with the intention of bringing blood to the surface of the skin, stimulating the nervous system, and softening hardened muscles (think of tenderizing meat not with a meat-tenderizing hammer, but with soft, relaxed hands that feel good!).
WHY DO IT?
So why on earth would a massage therapist want to strike their client’s body? There are many known benefits to this approach, some of which can vary per client. Following are some of the benefits.
Warming the tissue
If you have ever slapped a part of your body, you’ll notice a red mark quickly appears. Slapping, tapping, beating, hacking, and cupping all produce the same result. Pink or light red skin indicates that blood flow has raised to the surface of the skin, a circulatory benefit of tapotement.
Revitalizing and/or relaxing sore and tired muscles
Our skin and underlying muscles contain a lot of nerve endings. The rhythmic pace and light striking action of tapotement are stimulating to these nerve endings and can have the effect of soothing and relaxing tired muscles, as well as invigorating them. Depending on the needs of the client, either outcome is possible. Both are positive results.
Loosens areas of fluid buildup
When tapotement is applied to the back over the area where the lungs are, it can stimulate the removal of built-up mucus, especially after having a cold or bronchitis. Similarly, in areas where muscles are tight, blood can have a hard time flowing freely. Application of tapotement to these tight muscles can loosen them enough to create space for blood to flow.
So hopefully this helps you understand Swedish and Tapotement better. I encourage you to experience the beat and feel the goodness.
Have a great day.
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