What Is Swedish Massage?
Swedish massage is the most familiar style of therapeutic massage in the Western world. The
client lies, unclothed, on a padded table, often under a drape, which will cover areas of the body not
being massaged as the work progresses around to all the major muscle groups. The therapist
may use his hands, forearms, or elbows to apply a variety of strokes and pressure directly onto the
skin of the client, usually with some oil or lotion for lubrication. This will stimulate and sooth the
underlying tissues, as well as the skin, itself.
Massage is documented in cultures going back thousands of years, and the Swedish style is saidto have been developed in the early 1800s by the physiologist Per Henrik Ling. (This point is in debate.)Also in that century, the Dutchman Johann Mezger introduced the French words we still use for some
strokes done in this style. He was able to convince the medical community of the value of massage in
the treatment of disorders and disease. In 1856, Swedish massage was brought to America by
Doctors George and Charles Taylor.
There are five basic strokes in this style. Effleurage is a long, gliding stroke along the length
of the muscles. It assists blood flow to the heart and stimulates the lymphatic system to help
fight disease. Petrissage goes across the muscle fibers with kneading and lifting, softening the
fascia, as well. It can restore mobility to sticky tissue and help get nutrients to the cells. Friction
uses small, circular movements to stimulate deeper tissues. The therapist may use vibration;
trembling his fingertips to stimulate nerve activity or the function of internal organs. Tapotemont
is a drumming, tapping, or plucking done with the hands or fingertips. It is good for softening
and toning tissues, and for stimulating the nervous system.
Swedish massage offers many benefits. The stimulation will both sooth and tone. Healing is facilitated.Range of motion is increased. Pain is lessened. A sense of ease and well-being is fostered in a very basichuman way.
Also in that century, the Dutchman Johann Mezger introduced the French words we still use for some
strokes done in this style. He was able to convince the medical community of the value of massage in
the treatment of disorders and disease. In 1856, Swedish massage was brought to America by
Doctors George and Charles Taylor.
There are five basic strokes in this style. Effleurage is a long, gliding stroke along the length
of the muscles. It assists blood flow to the heart and stimulates the lymphatic system to help
fight disease. Petrissage goes across the muscle fibers with kneading and lifting, softening the
fascia, as well. It can restore mobility to sticky tissue and help get nutrients to the cells. Friction
uses small, circular movements to stimulate deeper tissues. The therapist may use vibration;
trembling his fingertips to stimulate nerve activity or the function of internal organs. Tapotemont
is a drumming, tapping, or plucking done with the hands or fingertips. It is good for softening
and toning tissues, and for stimulating the nervous system.
Swedish massage offers many benefits. The stimulation will both sooth and tone. Healing is facilitated.Range of motion is increased. Pain is lessened. A sense of ease and well-being is fostered in a very basic human way.
