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Swedish Massage


Swedish is perhaps one of the most common modalities used by a variety of therapists because it is simple, effective and adaptable. It’s a style of massage that is relaxing in nature. It involves the use of light to firm pressure applied with long, gliding strokes (effleurage strokes) over one muscle group at a time. This encourages circulation, which allow lymph and other cellular waste to flush out, stimulates the nervous system and allows the body and subsequent muscles to release overall tension.

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Other common techniques used in a traditional Swedish session include muscle kneading (petrissage), vibration and percussion (light tapping), and some stretching or joint mobilization/ranges of motion.
 

The Swedish modality serves as the perfect base for other bodywork styles, such as trigger point therapy, myofascial therapy or even various stretching techniques. It’s a great way to start a session by introducing the therapist’s touch, as well as gauging the client’s physical state. Each muscle group relaxes with each pass and any problem areas become easier to work out (the adhesions or “knots” one might feel in their shoulders for example). It can also bring the bodywork session full-circle and signal either moving on to a different area or ending the session.

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Swedish makes for a great first-time full-body experience as well, as it gives the client an understanding of massage and the therapist an opportunity to learn more about their specific needs from a bodywork session.

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