What is Swedish massage?
Many have asked: How this therapy could benefit me?

This may be the most commonly known massage modality. So, is it just relaxation massage? Many look down on it, thinking that it is black sheep of the therapeutic massage family. Is that true? Is it worth your money? Does it do any good? Let's find out!

Q: Is Swedish massage just for relaxation?
A: No. While it is true that Swedish massage is very relaxing, there are real benefits, too. Swedish massage techniques accomplish the following:
- Increased circulation, blood brings nutrients and oxygen to your tissues, it also removes waste and brings the tools for tissues to repair themselves.
- Stimulates skin health, the techniques used here stimulate the glands in the skin to keep the skin hydrated and balanced. The oil or lotion used during the massage helps, too.
- Promotes lymphatic flow, while not the only goal of Swedish massage, all of the massage strokes encourage the lymph system, which houses many of your body's immune cells.
- Encourages the parasympathetic nervous system, a big word, this nervous system can be summarized as the 'rest-and-digest' mode. That means, that physiologically, your body will start to truly rest, at a cellular level, encouraging proper digestion, and tissue repair.

So, yes, it's real therapy, it's worth your money if it's benefits are in line with your goals for that massage session, and it is a great way to spend an hour! Come see for yourself!

Photo courtesy of ABMP