Swedish Massage
Swedish massage was developed in the 1700s by Swedish physician Per Henrik Ling, possibly through the study of Chinese martial arts and tuina, a hands-on body treatment designed to restore balance in the body. The six basic strokes used in Swedish massage include effleurage (gliding/sliding), petrissage (kneading), friction (cross-fiber motion), vibration, traction, and tapotement (percussion or tapping). The primary purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the blood’s oxygen flow and assist in toxin removal from the muscles.
Basic Strokes of Swedish Massage
- Effleurage (gliding/sliding)
- Petrissage (kneading)
- Friction (cross-fiber motion)
- Vibration
- Traction
- Tapotement (percussion or tapping)
Direction of Swedish Massage Strokes
Massage strokes Direction – The choices of massage stroke directions are circular, longitudinal, and transverse. All stroke directions can be used on the torso, but longitudinal strokes applied to the peripherals should be deeper and stronger towards the heart and significantly lighter on their return. Transverse direction is also suitable for legs and arms.
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