Technique Library · Gliding

Effleurage

Introduce contact, distribute medium and create flowing transitions.

What it is

Effleurage describes controlled gliding movements using broad hand contact. It is one of the most recognisable massage technique families and can vary in direction, pressure and pace according to context.

Safety notes

Avoid broken, inflamed, acutely injured or otherwise unsuitable tissue. Pressure should remain comfortable and appropriate.

Common mistakes

Rushing; dragging the skin; losing contact; treating pressure as a competition.