The Source of Swedish Massage Therapy

Swedish massage is possibly the most frequent form of therapeutic massage in the usa. It includes the use of kneading, elbows or palms on the skin to manipulate the deeper layers of muscles to improve physical and mental wellness. Active or passive movements of the legs or arms may also be a part of the therapy. The benefits of Swedish massage include improved blood flow, psychological and emotional relaxation, lowered stress, reduced muscle strain, range of motion and mobility.

There are many different techniques used in Swedish massage. The five basic strokes used in this sort of massage are effleurage, friction, tapping or percussion. Effleurage and friction strokes work deep into the muscles. Tapping and percussion are often applied to reduce soreness, inflammation and stiffness. All the above techniques to relax and calm the body allowing the person receiving the treatment to be more comfortable.

Lots of the claims of Swedish massage can be compared to those of other types of therapy including acupuncture. Acupuncture is based on the notion that the body contains energy and that by applying certain specific pressure to these energy centers, the body can heal itself. Swedish massage uses similar techniques where effleurage and percussion are used to relax the muscles, releasing tension and allowing the muscles to release built up pressure. Relaxed muscles are less likely to contract in times of tension and reduce blood pressure.

Traditionally, Swedish massage uses the effleurage technique where the therapist utilizes mild strokes into the muscles, using both the hands and elbows. The strokes are usually light and are not intended to cause pain or discomfort. In modern treatment, this technique is sometimes combined with the slower, sliding movement of effleurage. The sliding movement is meant to stretch the muscle and allow it to be more receptive to being treated. Additionally, it works on the nerves by releasing pressure from them.

Sliding movements of effleurage can be used with massage called percussion. This combination is supposed to focus on the big muscle groups such as the trapezius and the infraspinatus. Both these muscles help maintain good posture. Percussion helps to increase circulation. Blood vessels at the trapezius and the infraspinatus are important in maintaining good posture. Removing blockages in these muscles allows greater flow.

One of the health benefits of Swedish massage is to improve circulation. Using heat promotes better circulation. Hot stones placed on specific areas also help to stimulate blood circulation. Swedish massage therapists often recommend the placement of oils, creams or lotions at key places where muscles become tight. These small items make it easy for the practitioner to reach all the areas where muscles are tight.


Regular Swedish massage therapy can lead to a decreased incidence of harm due to overexertion. Overdoing any type of physical activity can result in overuse injuries. The decreased risk of harm during the course of this type of therapy is due to the greater flexibility and strength of muscles. By relaxing the muscle groups, the possibility of injury is decreased.

Overall, Swedish massage has many health benefits. The wide variety of techniques ensures that a patient will receive a treatment that's suited to their unique needs. By working with a skilled Swedish massage therapist, patients are able to get the results they desire. Many people are surprised to find their variety of movement is increased after a session. This improved mobility enables them to do more things with their lives. For some, this alone can help them feel healthier, look better and ultimately enjoy life more.

Swedish massage therapy originated in the ancient Thracian people of central Europe. They practiced their art in oils, creams and gels applied to specific problem areas. In the early days, these techniques were only utilized to deal with a few specific problems. However, as time passed, these natural remedies were rediscovered and today are used to cure a huge array of issues, including joint and muscular pain, insomnia, nervousness, arthritis and chronic fatigue.

With a Swedish massage oil will increase the sensual experience. Different oils have different properties that can be soothing to the skin and help to decrease muscle strain and stress. Therefore, a therapist will know what oils to use depending on the client's needs. Using a specific oil during a particular treatment can help reduce the possibility of an adverse reaction to the oils.

Swedish massage therapists are trained to determine muscle strain using both their hands and their tongues. When a client is feeling stressed and tensed, they could relax and release negative energy by using the hands to massage the shoulders, neck and lower back. When the tension has been released, the man or woman is more receptive to the therapist's soothing touch.