What Is A Swedish Massage? Chicago's Expert Explains

Origins Of Swedish Massage

Swedish massage began in the 1830s when a Swedish fencing instructor named Per Henrik Ling healed his own injured elbows with the power of touch. Later on, a Dutch physician, Johan Georg Mezger, built on the rudimentary beginnings of Ling and developed what most closely resembles the current form of Swedish massage. This style of massage has evolved and grown significantly over the years, yet it is still a popular form of relaxation and healing for people all over the world. The massage therapists at Reflexion Spa use Swedish massage alone and in combination with other techniques and treatments in order to provide many benefits to our clients at our Hinsdale and Chicago locations.

Contact Reflexion Spa to book a Swedish Massage.

How Swedish Massage Works

Unlike some other types of massage therapy that focus only on a very specific area of the body such as neck massages , Swedish massage is a full-body treatment in which oils are combined with touch to create a personalized massage experience that meets the needs of each client. Though the duration and types of movement may vary based on practitioner preference and client needs, Swedish massage is comprised of the followed movements developed by Ling and Mezger:

Effleurage: In this first stage of Swedish massage, constant light to medium pressure is applied with the assistance of oils in smooth movements towards the heart to warm up muscles and relax the body.

Pétrissage: This kneading motion squeezes the flesh further releases muscle tension.

Friction: This is the deepest pressure applied in Swedish massage. The massage therapist applies the weight of their body through various parts of the hands and arms in a continuous slide motion or an alternating circular motion, in order to properly work on the deepest muscles.

Vibration: This gentle shaking of the flesh with the fingertips helps relieve tension in small muscle areas such as the spine and the neck. The massage therapist does a small section at a time until all targeted areas have been reached.

Tapotement: Though considered one of the basic movements of Swedish massage, this choppy movement may be limited or omitted by some therapists as it can be overstimulating for clients with certain preferences or conditions. Tapotement can be accomplished with cupped hands or loose fists. Be sure to tell your therapist if you have a preference.

Benefits Of Swedish Massage

Though Swedish massage is most often associated with relaxation, there are many reasons to try this technique. A Swedish massage can also easily be combined with other types of massage for a more personalized experience. Some of the most common reasons that people choose Swedish massage are:

Reduced stress symptoms such as better sleep, less severe headaches, or renewed energy levels
Better immune system functioning due to lower cortisol levels
Pain management for chronic conditions or injuries
Improved mobility due to kneading and friction
Improved flexibility as muscles relax
Increased Blood Flow from the motion and direction of effleurage, ridding the body of toxins

Experience Swedish Massage in Hinsdale Or Chicago

Whether you are a massage enthusiast or just curious about the experience, Reflexion Spa is here for you! View our complete menu of massage services and salon services and book an appointment (or two, or three) today!