Final answer:
Tapotement is a massage technique involving light tapping or slapping movements that increase blood circulation and stimulate nerves. It is used in various types of massage to relax muscles, enhance circulation, and promote well-being, often towards the end of a massage session.
Step-by-step explanation:
The basic massage movement that involves light tapping or slapping movements aimed at increasing blood circulation and stimulating nerves is known as tapotement. This technique is one of several massaging movements used by therapists to provide various health benefits, which include relaxing the muscles, promoting better circulation, and providing a sense of well-being. The technique can vary in intensity and speed but it is generally performed in a rhythmic fashion with the sides of the hand, fingertips, or even cupped hands depending on the desired effect.
During a massage therapy session, tapotement is most often used towards the end of a massage as a way to wake up the body and refresh the tissues after deeper, more relaxing strokes such as effleurage or petrissage have been applied. This movement is particularly beneficial in sports massage, as it helps to tone muscles and is thought to be helpful in both pre-event preparation and post-event recovery strategies.