Which type of massage movement is used to promote relaxation and blood circulation?

Effleurage is a type of massage movement that involves long, sweeping strokes typically applied using the palms of the hands. This technique is fundamental in massage therapy and is often used at the beginning and end of a massage session. The gentle, rhythmic movements of effleurage promote relaxation by soothing the nervous system and creating a calming effect on the body.

Additionally, these sweeping strokes aid in enhancing blood circulation because they help to warm up the muscles and increase the flow of blood to the area being treated. Improved circulation subsequently promotes the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscle tissues, which can aid in recovery and the overall health of the skin.

This makes effleurage particularly beneficial not just for relaxation but also as a preliminary step to prepare the body for deeper work with other techniques like petrissage or compression, which involve more intense manipulation. Thus, effleurage stands out for its foundational role in achieving relaxation and improved circulation during massage treatments.