SWEDISH MASSAGE

Last night was a night of submission.  No, not the "wife-submits-to-husband" kind of thing.  For a few days now, I had been carrying stiffness on the upper portion of my back towards the shoulders.  I was content to rub some liniments on the stiff portions, before I lie down to sleep, to ease the tension.  But last night was different.  The tingling on my nape became something that made it uncomfortable to twist my neck.

I had been eyeing a spa along the way home, which promoted my little longing for relaxation.  My present state made me toy between going or not.   I chose to submit (a little luxury won't hurt).  I needed to relax and I wanted some relief.  I felt that sleep would be restful after a massage. So off I went.

There were several choices on their list.  I told the clerk I wanted something appropriate to relieve me of the muscle tension along my shoulders.  So she offered me the Swedish Massage because they use massage oils with this option.

I was ushered into a cubicle in the darkened hallway lighted only with candles.  There was this aromatic essence in the atmosphere as I went inside and lay down on the mattress spread on the floor.  

True to my estimation, I found myself smiling like that lady in the picture.  My body was enjoying the mastery of this tiny attendant with tiny fingers yet held enough strength to loosen up knots in my muscles.

I know most of you had been to a spa but in the third world this is a treat.  Well, I have worked hard, didn't I?  A reward (to myself) should be in order, huhuhumm.... (two thumbs up).

..... and it was good.  Now where did I hear that one, surely it is in the book of Genesis.  Yes Lord, this little mold of dust needs a little healing.  Thanks.

Some facts I researched about Swedish Massage:
Thanks to Massage Envy.
For the image, thanks to the same site. (Edited by Lolita for added effects).

What is Swedish Massage Therapy?

Swedish massage therapy is the modality that comes to mind when most people think about massage. As the best-known type of bodywork performed today, one of the primary goals of the Swedish massage technique is to relax the entire body. This is accomplished by rubbing the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. But Swedish massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. Swedish massage is exceptionally beneficial for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, decreasing muscle toxins, improving circulation and flexibility while easing tension.
A study conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, and published in The New York Times, found that volunteers who received a 45-minute Swedish massage experienced significant decreases in levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as arginine vasopressin-a hormone that can lead to increases in cortisol. Volunteers also had increases in the number of lymphocytes, white blood cells that are part of the immune system, and a boost in the immune cells that may help fight colds and the flu.
Additional Swedish massage techniques include circular pressure applied by the hands and palms, firm kneading, percussion-like tapping, bending and stretching. Before and during your Swedish massage session, communication is encouraged with your professional massage therapist so that your massage is customized to your specific need.

Benefits of Massage Therapy

• Relieves stress
• Encourages relaxation
• Helps manage pain
• Relaxes muscles
• Improves flexibility and range of motion

....... yes, it was very good.