During a Swedish massage, therapists use:

• kneading
• long strokes
• deep circular movements
• passive joint movements

These techniques are meant to:

• relax you
• stimulate nerve endings
• increase blood flow and lymph drainage

Benefits of a Swedish Massage

• Pain Management – If you suffer from a condition such as sciatica or osteoarthritis with chronic pain, Swedish massage can be an effective method for managing that pain in a natural way. Your massage therapist can target these areas and use a stroking motion to improve local circulation and reduce muscle tension.
• Increased Blood Flow – Effleurage which are long, stroking motions in the direction of blood flow towards the heart opens up your blood vessels and increases blood flow. Your muscles get more nutrients and oxygen while your body removes toxins more efficiently.
• Rehabilitation for Muscle Injuries – Your massage therapist also relies on kneading and friction to treat any existing injuries, such as adhesions (caused by muscle tissues fusing together). Many of our valued clients say kneading and friction relaxes layers of muscle, as though the massage therapist is successfully “working out the kinks.”
• Increased Flexibility – When your muscles are more relaxed, you are able to experience a wider range of motion. A combination of Swedish massage and stretching is a great way for anyone to stave off workout-related injuries and get the most out of their periods of exercise.
• Reduced Stress – Swedish massages are given to maximize relaxation. You will be comfortable on a massage table, in a peaceful environment, with a professional massage therapist spending an extended time (between 60 – 120 minutes) giving you a massage. The combination of hands-on attention and your own environment should relax you and lower the level of the stress hormone cortisol in your body. Lowering your stress level can also contribute to reducing or eliminating tension headaches, give you more energy, and allow you to get a better night’s sleep.
• Improved Immune System – The lower cortisol levels resulting from a Swedish massage also allow your immune system to grow stronger. This means you will be less likely to get sick and have more time to spend doing the things you enjoy.

A traditional Swedish massage involves the whole body. You will begin on either your back or your stomach and flip over at the halfway point.

If you have an area of particular concern, such as a tight neck, you can ask your therapist to spend more time in this area. Depending on your preferences, you can ask your massage therapist to use light, medium, or firm pressure.

During most full-body massages, the expectation is you’ll be undressed. Your massage therapist will ask you to undress for your massage while they wait outside. It’s up to you whether or not to keep your underwear on.

Your massage therapist will drape a sheet over your body. They will pull back and adjust it as they work their way around. You will be covered most of the time.

Your massage therapist will use an oil or lotion to allow for smooth and long stokes. They may also ask if you have a preferred aromatherapy scent.