What can gliding strokes (effleurage) help to prepare a client for in massage therapy?

Gliding strokes, known as effleurage, serve as an essential preliminary technique in massage therapy primarily to prepare clients for deeper manipulation. By using long, flowing movements, effleurage helps to warm up the muscle tissue, increase circulation, and promote relaxation. This preparatory phase is crucial because it allows the therapist to assess the muscle tension and overall condition of the client's body, fostering an environment where deeper techniques can be applied more effectively and safely.

In addition, the calming effects of effleurage can reduce anxiety and enhance the overall therapeutic experience, making the transition to deeper tissue work smoother and more comfortable for the client. This foundational aspect of massage therapy underscores the importance of starting with gentler strokes before advancing to more intense methods that target deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.