How to Enjoy Swedish Massage

Getting a Swedish massage can be a relaxing and enjoyable adventure. A Swedish massage is one of the most commonly recognized forms of massage. It mainly consists of long, gliding strokes that induce a state of relaxation. The Swedish message is the most widely practiced form of massage.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Decide with the massage therapist which type of massage that you will be receiving. If you're new to massage, you probably don't want to have the most vigorous of styles, but a more relaxing gentle motion.

2. Check whether the massage is to be done in the nude or if partial dress is optional. During the massage, the client is constantly draped with just the area being worked on, exposed. If you still have discomfort at disrobing, explain this to the therapist when you make your appointment so she can recommend what you should wear to the massage.

3. Share any concerns with the massage therapist that you may have. Some parts of your body may be extremely sensitive and you would prefer that they are not touched. You may also have health conditions that should be revealed to the Swedish massage therapist.

4. Forget about the day and focus on the actual strokes of the massage. This focus will help calm your mind, and it's always best to just enjoy the experience. Be in the moment.

5. Notice that the therapist is making long gliding strokes. These are meant to stimulate the blood flow and lymph system. She will also use a kneading motion to relax muscle tension, and tapping, cupping and whacking movements to stimulate the nerves. The Swedish message is meant to stimulate the circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems.

6. Sleep if you need to. You will still gain the full effect of the massage.