Swedish Massage = Relaxation Massage

What is Swedish Massage?

Swedish massage is a popular therapeutic technique designed to relax the entire body by rubbing the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. Beyond mere relaxation, Swedish massage increases the oxygen level in the blood, decreases muscle toxins, improves circulation and flexibility while easing tension.

How Does Swedish Massage Compare to Other Techniques?

Deep Tissue Massage

• Purpose: Targets chronic muscle tension or knots (also known as “adhesions”) deep in the muscles and connective tissue.
• Technique: Uses slow, deliberate strokes that focus pressure on layers of muscles, tendons, or other tissues deep under the skin.
• Benefits: Helps with chronic pain, reduces inflammation, and can break up or reduce scar tissue.
• Considerations: Can sometimes lead to soreness for a few days post-treatment. Not recommended for people sensitive to deep pressure.

Shiatsu Massage

• Purpose: Aims to restore the flow of energy (Qi) throughout the body, believed to improve overall health and strengthen the organs.
• Technique: Applies pressure using thumbs, fingers, and palms to specific points on the body, aligning with energy pathways or meridians.
• Benefits: Promotes relaxation, strengthens the body’s ability to heal itself, and restores balance.
• Considerations: Typically performed through clothing, which may appeal to those uncomfortable with nudity. Pressure intensity can vary, which should be communicated with the therapist.

Comparing Swedish Massage

• Purpose: Primarily aimed at relaxation and promoting health.
• Technique: Characterized by gentle, flowing strokes such as effleurage, petrissage, vibration, tapping, and shaking motions that apply gentle to medium pressure.
• Benefits: Enhances physical relaxation, decreases stress, lowers blood pressure, and helps to manage pain.
• Considerations: Not intended for targeted relief of severe pain or deep muscle tension as provided by more intense massage techniques like deep tissue.

Not sure what massage is right for you? Contact us to speak with an expert certified massage therapist today to select the right style of massage for you and your needs.