Swedish

Swedish Massage is what most people think of when they envision massage. Swedish massage uses a system of long flowing strokes, gentle kneading, friction and percussive type techniques on the soft-muscle tissue, plus active and passive movements of the joints. Swedish massage is used primarily for a full body session which promotes general relaxation, increases range of motion and circulation, relieves muscle tension and eliminates toxins from the body. Swedish massage is typically done on a massage table with the client unclothed to their comfort level and modestly draped with a soft flannel sheet. Oils or lotions are applied to the client’s skin to allow the therapist the ease of performing effleurage (long flowing), and petrissage (small, circular motions) with ease and comfort for both the client and therapist.
Since most people recognize Swedish as a common massage thechnique it is a frequent mistake to refer to the practictioner as a masseuse or masseur. This is a term specific to Swedish, Most people, today, are trained in multiple disciplines which allows them to carry the title Massage Therapist.