What type of massage movements generally produce stimulation to body tissues?

Firm kneading is effective for producing stimulation to body tissues because it involves applying pressure and movement to deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. This technique helps to enhance blood circulation, promote lymphatic drainage, and release tension in the muscles. The action of kneading creates friction and warmth within the tissues, which can invigorate and energize the area being massaged.

While the other techniques mentioned, such as light effleurage, tapotement, and petrissage, each have their own unique benefits, they serve different purposes. Light effleurage is more about relaxation and calming the nervous system, rather than deep tissue stimulation. Tapotement includes rhythmic tapping or percussion movements, which can be stimulating but are generally more focused on increasing circulation and not necessarily on deep tissue engagement. Petrissage, while also a kneading technique, often has a broader focus that includes both lifting and compressing tissues and may not produce the same level of stimulation as firm kneading specifically aimed at deeper layers.

Thus, firm kneading stands out as the method best suited for stimulating the body's tissues.