As the default Western massage, Swedish massage is an extremely popular, simple, soothing touch therapy. At most spas, Swedish massage is the most popular treatment, and it’s for good reason. Perfect for first-time spa-goers, Swedish massage will help to release neck knots and sooth nerves. Traditional Swedish massage, or “classical massage,” consists mainly of long strokes over oiled skin.
Some therapists now incorporate advanced techniques that have rehabilitating effects and stretches for improving your range of motion. The technique involves kneading of the outer layers of muscle tissue to reduce stress and sooth sore joints and muscles. Studies show Swedish massage relaxes the nervous system, aids circulation, and helps with detoxification.
What is Swedish Massage?
When most people think of massage, they think of Swedish. The style takes its name from a 19th-century Swedish physiologist, Per Henrik Ling, whose system of medical gymnastics included massage.
Then Johan Georg Mezger (1838-1909) coined a reduced set of maneuvers and techniques of Dr. Ling’s system as the “Swedish massage” system. Swedish massage is defined by four or five somewhat familiar techniques. Each has French names: effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic choppings), and friction (rubbing).
Swedish Massage for Rehabilitative Purposes
Some therapists now incorporate advanced techniques that have rehabilitating effects and stretches for improving your range of motion. But the ultimate goal is relaxation. As the default Western massage, Swedish massage is extremely popular and is simple, soothing touch therapy.
Typical, traditional Swedish massage consists of long strokes over oiled skin and kneading of the outer layers of muscle tissue to reduce stress and soothe sore joints and muscles. Swedish massage relaxes the nervous system, aids circulation, and helps with detoxification.
The Swedish body massage has become the most common massage practice in the West. As quintessential blissfulness, soothing strokes and gentle kneading are meant to relax the body.
Massage for Stress
Yet, studies have shown Swedish massage reduces stress, promotes health, and prevents injuries. At most spas, Swedish massage is the most popular treatment, and it’s for good reason. It helps jangled nerves and releases neck knots without being too demanding of the spa-goer.
Fundamental to massage programs, Swedish massage techniques are a must and any licensed therapist should be proficient in this massage.