In order to impart the healing touch of massage we can use a variety of techniques which form the bases of all the massage strokes. Each therapist with time develops approaches unique to their individual style therefore the following list covers only the most common variety of massage techniques

EFFLEURAGE - Effleurage is derived from the French word effleurer which, broadly translated, means to 'touch lightly' or 'skim over'. It is a wide-area stroke performed with the palm of the hand and fingers; the aim is to massage in a rhythmic, smooth, flowing, gliding, stroking way. It is enhanced by the use of oil, and is an excellent way to begin and end a massage. Among its other benefits, effleurage creates an immediate sense of trust and relaxation between the person who is giving and the person who is receiving the massage.
Light effleurage promotes relaxation, alleviates pain and encourages sleep.
Deep effleurage improves circulation, stretches and relaxes tense muscles, helps lymphatic drainage and the elimination of waste products, and improves the elasticity of the skin.
Although effleurage is mainly performed with the flat palm of the hand in long regular strokes, it can also be practised with a cupped hand, by placing one hand on top of the other, and by using the tips of the fingers for 'feathering', a very calming and soothing technique.

Technique one of back massage is a classical effleurage technique

KNEADING Kneading is a stimulating stroke used for releasing toxins, tightness and tensions from muscles and delivering a revitalizing supply of oxygenated blood to the areas being
massaged. It is mainly used on the fleshy parts of the body, such as such as thighs, legs and buttocks and it resembles the action of kneading dough.
In kneading you use both hands alternately. The movements are a rhythmic squeezing which flow towards and away from each other. Wringing, most effective on the thighs and calves, adds a twist-action to the kneading. Keep the thumb close to the fingers. Push in opposite directions with each hand, squeezing the flesh between them. It is a flowing movement, but is deeper and more stimulating than kneading.

The first bottom technique is a classical kneading technique

PETRISSAGE - The aim of petrissage is to stretch muscles in a deeper and more stimulating way than effleurage. It is a form of kneading, wringing and firm rubbing that can be practised with both hands together, with alternate hands, or with one hand on top of the other. The movements, used mainly on fleshy parts of the body, like the thighs, can be slow and deep or quick and energizing, gentle or firm. They relax tense muscles, releasing deep muscular contractions; revitalize tissues; improve circulation; and help to eliminate waste.

The back technique 2 is a firm and warming petrissage technique

FEATHERING Feathering is achieved by massaging with the finger-tips in a soothing and light rythm, it is a lighter form of effleurage and imparts a sense of relaxation and sensual languor.

PERCUSSION The three main forms of percussion are hacking, cupping and pummelling. The aim is to increase circulation, break down fatty deposits and revitalize tissues. The movements, which are mainly brisk and stimulating, but can be soothing if performed slowly, are most commonly used on fleshy muscular areas, such as the buttocks and top of thighs. They are never used on bony, injured or painful areas.
Keep your hands relaxed, maintaining a gentle flowing rhythm, using light springy movements. Watch for any discomfort in the person you are massaging. If a movement hurts, do not repeat it.

Cupping is performed by arching the hands at the knuckles, keeping the fingers straight, and using the hollow part of the fists alternately in rapid up-and-down movements. It is excellent for treating the build-up of cellulite in the thighs.

For pummelling, keep wrists relaxed, and make hands into loose and hollow fists.
Bounce the sides of the fists rapidly and lightly, alternately. It disperses tension and congestion, increases blood flow, and breaks up fatty deposits.

Hacking uses the sides of both hands alternately to deliver light, bouncy, chop-chop movements on areas such as the buttocks. It is essential to keep hands relaxed. This stroke stimulates the circulation and skin, and relaxes muscles.

PRESSURE - These techniques are used for massaging smaller areas of the body, notably the muscles along the side of the spine, acupressure points, thighs and around the shoulder and buttocks area. To improve flow of energy and circulation and calm an area, thumbs are used for applying a rolling circular pressure. For tonification use the pads of the thumbs to press directly on the underlying muscles for a few seconds before releasing.
Pressure with the hands is also used pressing down with the whole palm.