What is a Swedish Massage
Known as a “classic massage” in many countries, the Swedish massage is the best known and most widely practiced type of massage therapy. There are a variety of techniques used in Swedish massage including circular pressure applied by the hands and palms, firm kneading, light tapping, and more.
The benefits of Swedish massage
A Swedish massage is designed to relax the entire body by rubbing the muscles in long, gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. But the benefits of Swedish massage go beyond relaxation. It can help increase the level of oxygen in the blood and improve circulation and flexibility. Talk to your therapist about incorporating elements of Swedish massage into your next session.
What Happens During a Swedish Massage
In all Swedish massage, the therapist lubricates the skin with massage oil and performs various massage strokes, including the basic techniques for a traditional Swedish massage: effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, vibration/nerve strokes, and Swedish gymnastics.
These movements warm up the muscle tissue, releasing tension and gradually breaking up muscle "knots" or adhered tissues, called adhesions. Swedish massage promotes relaxation, among other health benefits, but before the massage, the therapist should ask you about any injuries or other conditions that he or she should know about.
Benefits Of Swedish Massage
- Increase blood flow
- Increase flexibility
- Improve sleep quality
- Improve anxiety/mood
- Help with fibromyalgia