Russian Massage Video and Textbook
A Review of Classical Healing Therapeutic Massage Techniques
The Art of Russian Massage DVD and Book set by Olena Adams, LMT provides an instructional overview of Clinical Russian Massage, Cupping and Honey Massage.
Russian Curative Massage (RCM) is the subject of this instructional massage video and textbook by Olena Adams, LMT published by Island Moonlight Publishing which provides massage therapists with a wide range of techniques to include in their bodywork sessions, especially with clients who desire a more clinical or therapeutic level of work.
What is Russian Clinical Massage (RCM)? When is RCM Used?
In the introduction massage therapists learn the history and development of RCM as well as the many benefits of this therapeutic massage. Adams shares that in Russian hospitals massage is often prescribed by the physicians to increase well-being and overall health of hospitalized patients with great success. As several benefits of Russian Therapeutic Massage are discussed it is clear why many people would find relief through massage.
The General Techniques of Russian Clinical Massage
The Art of Russian Massage text discusses several techniques regularly employed during RCM and the video does a good job of demonstrating the techniques. At times in the video, Adams' accent is slightly difficult to understand but with the textbook showing the techniques with clear photography, it is easy to follow along. While some of the strokes are similar to what massage students learn in basic training programs for Swedish Massage, many of the strokes are different and this is where Adams excels in not only showing the techniques, but also giving hints and tips about when a massage therapist might consider using each technique.
Several types of strokes used in RCM cover stroking, rubbing, kneading, vibrations and percussions. Some of the techniques and strokes discussed and shown in these categories include:
- Embracing
- Pinch
- Rake
- Comb
- Interlaced or Cruciform
- Palm-on-Palm
- Gliding
- Planing
- Shading
- Centipede
- Scooping
Book Only Massage Techniques
There are a few chapters devoted to specialty topics and massage techniques that are not shown or discussed in The Art of Russian Massage video. These topics include Lunar Medicine and Massage, Crystal and Mineral Therapy, Aromatherapy and Medicinal Aromas, Steam Baths and Hot Stones, and Meditation and Cleansing the Aura. The chapters provide a brief introduction to the techniques for massage therapists not familiar with them and will allow more experienced therapists to incorporate some of these special techniques into a Russian inspired massage.
Healing with Russian Honey Massage
The Art of Russian Massage textbook discusses the many benefits of using honey in massage including how it moisturizes skin, relieves arthritis and other chronic conditions and more. Massage therapists can then view the RCM video to see the techniques demonstrated which should be very helpful if they've never used honey in a massage before. Honey is very thick and has a different glide and feel than massage oil or lotion so using honey during a massage session will require a little different touch which is clearly explained and shown in The Art of Russian Massage Video.
Cupping Techniques as Part of Russian Healing Massage
The Art of Russian Massage textbook more briefly discusses using cupping or vacuum techniques to help induce a healing response in the body and the video shows cupping more clearly. Obviously for advanced use more training would be required but the history of cupping in Russian Clinical Massage is fascinating.
How to Use Russian Massage in Specific Situations
The Art of Russian Massage textbook has an additional section not included in the video that is dedicated to FAQ's and when to apply which techniques to certain physical conditions. Topics discussed include back pain, calf cramps, asthma, depression, headaches, swollen feet and many more. Some common questions related to managing a successful massage business are a huge bonus for therapists.
