Friction

This deep-tissue stroke should be used with discretion and with the person's tolerance level in mind. It is mainly used on the back.

Using the pad of your thumb or index finger, slowly apply pressure to the point. Then rotate the pad very slightly for 10-15 seconds before releasing it slowly. With a sore point it may be helpful simply to increase the pressure as the person breathes out, releasing it gradually with the in-breath.

Friction can also be used anywhere on the back, where you find a knot or stiffness. The pressure will help release the knot. At the most repeat friction on a point only two or three times. Always follow friction with relaxing gliding strokes.

Zones for Friction: Like the feet and the hands the back has several reflex zones relating to different organs of the body. While any type of massage on a zone will affect the relevant organ, friction has the most powerful effect. The points to apply it are situated three-quarters of the way up the ridge of muscle on either side of the spine, level with the tip of each vertebra.