What is Swedish Massage?

The foundation of most modern western massage, Swedish massage consists of effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, and vibration. These techniques are used to warm tissue, activate the parasympathetic nervous system and induce a sense of relaxation. It is often used to prep for deeper work but is also a wonderful standalone modality. When your massage therapist is using these techniques you can expect a lighter touch, not too much depth and a lack of deep elbow or knuckle use.

In every massage I give, I am using - at the very least - two Swedish massage techniques.