A Swedish massage, also known to Europe as the “Classic Massage” is the most popular form of massage therapy.

The Swedish massage is usually recommended for your first massage and typically, if you don’t specify a particular kind of massage for your visit, you’ll most likely receive a Swedish massage.

A Swedish massage usually consists of five types of movements:

• Effleurage – is to make long, gliding strokes along the body. The massaging of the muscles helps to increase relaxation, reduce stress and tension. This movement is great for the upper back, shoulders and neck.
• Petrissage – very similar to kneading dough, this technique helps you to unwind by relieving muscle tension. Kneading and squeezing the muscle helps to rid the muscles from unwanted fluid retention, such as lactic acid and toxins.
• Tapotement – is a gentle pounding of the body, much like a drumming motion.
• Vibration – is rhythmic and rapid shaking of the body. This technique is great for relieving muscle tension from the neck and shoulder areas.
• Friction – is used to manipulate muscle fibers, usually done in circular or perpendicular motions. The use of massage oils is common with a Swedish massage, used primarily to create friction and stretch the muscle fibers.