The Relaxation Massage
Effleurage (from the French effleurer, 'to skim over') consists of long, soothing lighter strokes than the more therapeutic forms of massage, performed using the flat of the hands or the fingers. In many massage sessions, effleurage is used as the initial type of stroking, as it has a calming effect when performed slowly. Effleurage is usually performed in the direction of the heart to promote circulation and lymphatic drainage. Hospice care utilizes Effleurage redily to improve the quality of life for their patients, which shows just how soothing this type of massage truly can be.