Massage Techniques (2/4): Friction
Rubbing is a massage technique that warms the area being massaged. The massage therapist's hands glide over the patient's skin, moving it. Rubbing techniques are performed rhythmically at varying speeds (depending on the task being performed). The direction of the rubbing movements is generally unimportant, so rubbing is performed without regard to the direction of lymph flow. Rubbing techniques are alternated with stroking techniques.
Rubbing techniques can be roughly divided into primary and secondary.
Rubbing techniques improve blood circulation in the area being massaged and prepare it for subsequent kneading. Rubbing techniques are always alternated with stroking techniques.
You can watch a quick tutorial on rubbing techniques here: • Экспресс-урок массажа: приёмы растирания