What is Swedish Massage?

With so many different types of massage available, it can be confusing as to what they all do and what they are best suited for. As each massage is best used for different needs, injuries, or healing, and understanding the differences can be confusing.

Swedish Massage is based on a modern, western, concept of the body and healing with specific strokes such as effleurage and tapotement being used to achieve a full body relaxation.

Using lotion or oil, the massage therapist will work with the client to address problem areas and achieve deep muscle relaxation. Some of the strokes used in Swedish Massage are:

• Effleurage– This type of massage is made up of long smooth strokes.
• Vibration– A massage technique that utilizes rocking and shaking.
• Pertissage– Using lifting, rolling and kneading this technique is used to help ease muscles into relaxation.
• Friction– A deeper stroke that uses wringing or small circular movements to relieve pressure.
• Tapotement– A percussion based technique used for particularly tight and angry muscles.

The western based Swedish massage draws its technique from modern anatomy and physiology and is best used to relieve general body discomfort, muscle aches, and mild injuries. Because this is one of the most common types of massage, you can find experienced trained therapists ready to practice this technique at almost every studio as well as clinics, spas and wellness centers.

Another great place to find a therapist trained in Swedish Massage is a massage school, where supervised students are learning to master a new skill.

Utilizing this technique with a trained and licensed therapist can relieve a myriad of issues, as well as leave you feeling relaxed, calm, and even energized.