Swedish massage, developed in 1812 by Swedish physiologist Henri Peter Ling, is a manual therapy that emphasizes long strokes, kneading and friction motions to encourage proper circulation. The technique involves rubbing muscles together in the same direction as the flow of blood to the heart. Swedish massage works to improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, stretch tight ligaments and reduce emotional stress. A combination of five different hand strokes to release tension, restore circulation, and to relieve pain.
Five Basic Swedish Massage Hand Strokes