Swedish massage is one of the most well known and popular massage techniques today. This full body treatment helps the body to cleanse itself of toxins, relieves muscle tension, reduces stress, improves circulation and promotes relaxation. It is often used for patients with stiff joints and is helpful in relieving pain for arthritis sufferers.

Swedish massage was developed in the 1800s by Dutchman Georg Mezger and later popularized by Per Henrik Ling, a Swedish fencing master and gymnastics teacher. Different types of long, flowing strokes are used in Swedish massage, usually in the direction of the heart. The patient is undressed and draped for modesty and oil, cream or lotion is used to reduce friction against the skin.

Swedish massage often begins with effleurage. These are long, gliding strokes meant to calm and relax the muscles. Petrissage are kneading strokes applied using the palm or finger tips to roll and compress muscle tissue. Tapotement is a rhythmic stroke applied with the heel of the hand or edge of the palm that stimulates muscles and helps relieve cramped muscles.

Vibration, compression and friction strokes are also used to release tension and reach deep tendons and ligaments. Friction can also help to reduce the formation of scar tissue.

Because the skin is the largest organ of the body, massaging it with these specific strokes can set up a chain reaction that affects all the body’s systems in a positive way. It affects the muscles, nerves, glands and circulation systems to promote wellbeing and good health.