Which technique may be utilized to alleviate muscle tension?

Deep tissue manipulation is an effective technique for alleviating muscle tension because it focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue and fascia. This technique involves using firm and slow strokes to reach the deeper muscle groups, which helps to break down adhesions and knots that can accumulate due to stress, overuse, or injury. By applying sustained pressure to specific areas, deep tissue manipulation encourages blood flow, promotes relaxation, and relieves pain, ultimately assisting in the reduction of muscle tension.

Other techniques, while beneficial in their own right, are often more suited for relaxation or superficial effects. For example, light stroking is typically used for relaxation and to promote a sense of well-being rather than addressing deeper muscular issues. Fragrance therapy focuses on the use of essential oils to enhance mood or relaxation but does not directly alleviate muscle tension. Hot stone application can provide a soothing effect and enhance relaxation but is generally more focused on superficial heat application rather than directly targeting deeper muscle tension.

Thus, deep tissue manipulation is specifically designed to address and relieve muscle tension, making it the most appropriate choice among the options.