Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage is the most recognised and most practiced type of massage. It is the foundation that most specialisms spread from.

 

It has a long history rooted in ancient healing practices from ancient Greece to China, however the modern tradition comes from Swedish physiologist Per Henrik Ling, who developed the system of techniques and principles as part of his "Ling System of Movement" combined with exercises for physical health. 

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The main categories of techniques were then later standardised by Dutch physician Johann Georg Mezger. These are:

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Effleurage: long, flowing, gliding strokes

Petrissage: kneading, squeezing and deeper movements for soft tissues

Friction: deep, circular, precise techniques to target trigger points, adhesions and knots

Tapotement: percussive movements to energise and stimulate local circulation

Vibration: Quick, staccato, shaking movements 

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Swedish massage has the advantage of being the most customisable practice as pressure can range from gentle to firm; depth can range from shallow to deep, and speed can range from quick to slow. All of this means Swedish massage can be perfectly tailored to a wide range of problems and client preferences.

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