Stimulating Massage Strokes

Question 1

Kneading

Answer 1

(Pétrissages) hand, palm, thumbs, fist. Pressure on the tissue creates a pumping effect of the blood and lymph. Separates muscle bundles, locates tension, and adhesions or scar tissue

Question 2

Strip

Answer 2

(Friction) fingers, thumbs, side of hand, elbow. Pressure applied to movement to feel for and focus in on sensitive and reactive areas

Question 3

Scooping

Answer 3

(Pétrissage) palm and fingertips. Curved hand into a loosely cupped form, pulling medial to lateral to increase circulation to the muscle

Question 4

Circles

Answer 4

(Friction) fingertips, fingers, whole hand. Stimulating stroke that can include large, small, softer, deeper, calming, or stimulating intentions

Question 5

Friction

Answer 5

Fingertip, thumb, whole hand. Fast scratching motion that helps break down adhesions and tension in the muscle fibers

Question 6

Hacking

Answer 6

(Tapotement/Percussion) penetrates deeply into the muscle with a little pressure, uses the side of the hand

Question 7

Pummeling

Answer 7

(Tapotement/Percussion) penetrates deeply into the muscle with a little pressure. Uses the side of a loose fist

Question 8

Cupping

Answer 8

(Tapotement/Percussion) penetrates deeply into the muscle with a little pressure. Curved hand and a loose cup form