Swedish Massage

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Swedish Massage

What it is

Swedish massage is the most popular type of massage in the western world today. It is usually the first type of massage taught in traditional massage schools and forms a foundation for most other types of massage. It is a relaxing massage that enhances circulation and is characterized by its long, gliding strokes.

Techniques of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage has five major strokes; effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, and vibration. Effleurage consists of long, flowing, medium pressure strokes. It uses the palms of the hands and most strokes are done in the direction of the heart to enhance circulation. Petrissage is a kneading stroke and is deeper than effleurage. Friction is a deep stroke which uses pressure applied with the thumbs and fingers in a circular motion. Tapotement is a stroke that applies springy blows with the fists and edges of the palms. Vibration is a stroke where the practitioner tenses the muscles in the hands and makes a vibratory motion. The purpose is to relax the nervous system.

History of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage was developed in the early 1800s by Per Henrick Ling who was an athlete and a gymnast. He also suffered from Rheumatoid arthritis and traveled the world searching for a cure. His development of Swedish massage was his answer to that quest and it cured him of his Rheumatoid arthritis.

Benefits of Swedish Massage

Increases circulation
Decreases pain by releasing endorphins and breaking up muscle tension
Reduces stress
Improve immune functioning
Removes toxins from the body
Flushes out lactic acid from the muscles
Increases range of motion
Decreases joint pain

Typical Swedish Massage Session

A typical Swedish massage session can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. All clothing is removed, although underwear may be left on if the client feels more comfortable, and the client lies under a sheet on a massage table. They may also be covered with a blanket. Only the section of the body that is currently being worked on is uncovered at a time. If the back is being worked on, the back will be uncovered. If the leg is being worked on, only the leg will be uncovered. The therapist will apply oil or lotion and perform effleurage, long gliding strokes with the palms of their hands. This warms up the muscles and starts the relaxation process. They will then apply the other four strokes as needed; petrissage, friction, vibration and tapotement.

The therapist may add aromatherapy to the lotion and use candles and soft music to enhance the relaxation experience.

Training

Swedish massage is taught at almost every traditional massage school, and it is usually the first type of massage that is taught. More advanced training is also available.

Aromatherapy goes very well with Swedish massage. For information about using aromatherapy with Swedish massage, go to Aromatherapy Basics.