SWEDISH MASSAGE
Also known as European style massage.
Swedish massage employs several basic steps in a flowing form that treats the whole body using lotion or oil. It is excellent for relieving muscle strain, stress, soreness, improving range of motion and for overall relaxation.
The basic steps are:
Effleurage - long, smooth, light strokes; soothing, introductory strokes
Petrissage - deeper, kneading strokes; reduces lactic acid build up, relieves tension
Friction - deepest type of stroke; breaks up adhesions, reduces restrictions in range of motion
Tapotement - any kind of tapping (hacking, chopping, cupping); effect the internal organs and causes deep relaxation
Vibration - similar to tapotement in effect.