Description

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is the classic form of western massage, which uses five classic massage movements that is effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration. Swedish massage is the most commonly offered and best – known type of massage. Besides the calming benefits, Swedish massage is good for easing muscular strain, flushing out toxins, improving circulation, stimulating the nervous system, reducing emotional and physical stress.

Swedish massage is the most common type of massage at the spa. Swedish massage combines various hands-on techniques including gliding, kneading, and cross-fiber friction to break up muscle knots, called adhesions.

Swedish massage is based on the Western concepts of anatomy and physiology as opposed to energy work. It can be slow and gentle, or vigorous and bracing, depending on what the therapist wants to achieve.

Swedish massage is performed by a trained and licensed massage therapist who lubricates the skin with massage oil and usually takes 50 to 60 minutes to massage the whole body.

The father of Swedish massage (and also) physical therapy is Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839) of Smaaland, Sweden, a physiologist and fencing master.

In the early 19th century he developed a system called "Medical Gymnastics" which included movements performed by a therapist. These became the known as "Swedish movements" in Europe and "the Swedish Movement Cure" when they came to the U.S. in 1858. Today it is simply known as Swedish massage.

What Happens During Swedish Massage?

Generally during Swedish massage you're nude underneath a towel or sheet. The massage therapist uncovers only the part of the body he/she is working on, a technique called draping. You can keep your underwear on during Swedish massage, and many newcomers do.

During Swedish massage, massage therapists apply massage oil to your skin to facilitate various massage strokes, including the smooth, gliding strokes called effleurage. Other classic Swedish massage moves include kneading, friction, stretching and (sometimes) tapping.

Swedish massage promotes relaxation, eases muscle tension and creates other health benefits. It can be slow and gentle or vigorous and bracing, depending on what the therapist wants to achieve.

Feel free to state your preference for pressure during Swedish massage. It can range from light to firm. Swedish massage usually includes some deeper work on areas of specific muscle tension. If you want more intensive work and firmer pressure, ask for a deep tissue massage.

The cost of a Swedish massage will vary, depending on whether you go to a day spa, resort spa, destination spa, a chain like Massage Envy or go to a massage therapist. Swedish massage pricing will also depend on what part of the country you live and how luxurious the spa is.