-

-

Swedish massage is a series of touches and movements of tissue and joints that causes relaxation, improved circulation, reduced muscle and emotional tension, improved flexibility, and easing of pain. While there is some controversy surrounding its origins, it is generally thought that Dr. Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839) created a program of touch and movements that we refer to today as “Swedish Massage.”

What is not controversial, though, are the benefits to be gained from this type of massage therapy. According to medical dictionary.com, “…because the skin is the largest organ of the body, massage causes a chain reaction that produces a positive effect on all layers and systems of the body.” Swedish massage typically consists of five basic movements performed on muscles and joints. The first movement, “effleurage,” is a series of long, gliding strokes going in the direction of blood flow to the heart. Usually, the massage therapist will start with the leg or the back; however, there are no hard and fast rules on which part of the body to start the massage.