What is the purpose of effleurage in massages?

Effleurage, which is a technique characterized by long, sweeping strokes, primarily serves to circulate blood flow. This method is beneficial in warming up the muscle tissue, increasing circulation to the area being massaged, and helping to prepare the body for deeper techniques. The gentle nature of effleurage allows for the promotion of relaxation and encourages venous return as fresh blood is brought to the muscles. This increased blood flow can aid in the transport of nutrients and oxygen to tissue, while also assisting in the removal of waste products, which is essential for overall muscle health and recovery.

The other options, while related to the benefits of massage, do not accurately describe the primary intention of effleurage. Relieving tension, stimulating deep tissue, and reducing muscle soreness can be outcomes of different massage techniques that focus on deeper pressure or targeted muscle groups, rather than the superficial strokes of effleurage. Hence, effleurage's core purpose aligns with enhancing circulation.