
03 Aug What is Swedish massage and why is it so popular?
Did you know Swedish massage is the most sought-after form of massage therapy in Canada?
And it’s no wonder—the main goals of this treatment are to help people relax, refresh and energize their bodies.
Swedish massage involves the use of a massage therapist’s hands, forearms and elbows to manipulate the superficial layers of muscles, improving both mental and physical health. Your therapist may also use forms of active or passive movement of the joints to increase circulation and assess mobility. At Massago, it’s one of our most recommended treatments for clients in need of ultimate relaxation for both mind and body!
If you haven’t had a massage treatment in a while or are someone who has not yet experienced this form of relaxation, a Swedish massage with one of our Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs) should be the next thing you schedule into your day.
The origins of Swedish massage
Swedish massage was, as you may have guessed, devised in Sweden by fencing instructor Per Henrik Ling in the 1830s. As with many repetitive-motion sports, it’s likely Ling developed elbow injuries from the consistent joint movement while fencing. Well, he didn’t let that get him down! It’s reported that he cured his pain using percussion strokes around the affected area, which eventually led to different forms of strokes later adopted as Swedish massage.So, what does Swedish massage look like today?
Before starting your treatment, your therapist will go over your health history and any assessments needed. Communication is one of the most important details before, during and after your massage as your therapist will determine whether the benefits of massage outweigh any risks to your current physical health. You’ll be given the opportunity to ask questions and go over any preferences you may have, such as the amount of pressure or areas of the body you’d like to include or exclude during the treatment. Once the massage begins, your therapist will likely use long, flowing strokes, as well as kneading, tapping and other rhythmic techniques, with the goal of relieving muscle tension.
Swedish massage techniques
There are five techniques involved in a Swedish massage:- Effleurage
- Petrissage
- Tapotement
- Friction
- Vibration