Therapeutic Massage  promotes the healthy function of all the body's systems, reducing stress and promoting relaxation and a sense of well-being, as well as relieving physical pain and promoting the free movement of the entire structure.

Swedish Massage is the primary type of therapeutic massage I practice.  It is a holistic therapeutic system designed to treat the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual bodies of a person. It includes elements comparable to myofascial release and circulation or sports-style massage. It also contains an energy-healing component.

The Swedish system is both active and passive, invigorating and relaxing. Using movements that healed his own body, Per Ling (1776-1839), a physiologist and fencing master from Smaaland, Sweden, created the Swedish system which encompasses a wide range of qualities and technical strokes, including the following:

Effleurage strokes relax and smooth nerves, integrate other strokes and promote the healthy flow of lymph and the shedding of dead skin cells;

Compression invigorates individual muscles, enhances the circulation and lymph systems, and helps prevent muscle stiffness and soreness due to exertion and exercise;

Petrissage or Kneading promotes the release and free movement of stiff muscles and connective tissues;

Friction increases metabolic rate, thus quickening detoxification, making muscles more pliable and reducing or eliminating knots or tissue bundles, which essentially are toxic fluids stored or stuck between layers of fascia due to emotional stress, overwork and prolonged exertion or exercise. Friction aids in absorption of fluid around the joints, enhances circulation and promotes healthy glands;

Vibration soothes, relaxes and relieves stress when applied lightly and stimulates the nervous system when applied with pressure. Shaking limbs releases tension, thus loosening joints and promoting full-range movement;

Tapotement or Tapping or Percussion tones muscle, reduces fat, promotes circulation and creates an overall energizing feeling;

Joint Manipulation (Stretching) (active and passive) strengthens muscles and enhances range of motion;

Pacing, Breath Rhythm and Awareness enhance mental receptivity as in hypnosis and promote overall balance.

History and descriptions are taken from The Theory and Practice of Therapeutic Massage by Mark Beck, Milady Publishing Company, Albany, New York, 1988.  Comparisons and comments are my own, based on experience.