Swedish Massage

When most people think of massage, they think of “Swedish massage”. Swedish massage is a classic western massage technique which combines kneading and long smooth strokes to improve circulation and that relax and loosen muscles. The techniques applied in Swedish massage are gentle and rhythmic. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive and tapping movements, usually accompanied by the application of oil, to reduce friction on the skin. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissue of lactic acid, uric acid and other metabolic wastes, and it speeds the venous return of un-oxygenated blood and toxins from the extremities. Even though the pressure is relatively light, this treatment still has therapeutic benefits including: an increased blood flow, increased muscle tone, improved oxygenation to the muscles, and, of course, relaxation. For someone has never had a massage before, Swedish massage provides a great introduction.