I got a Swedish Massage in Sweden

Like many travelers, I enjoy a good massage on vacation. But on a recent trip to Sweden, I had to experience Swedish Massage in its birthplace! As a massage therapist, I was fascinated to find how closely it mirrored what I learned in school—effleurage, petrissage, and tapotement, just as Per Henrik Ling, the founder of Swedish Gymnastics, intended.

Swedish Massage was originally part of a holistic system focused on movement and rehabilitation, designed to promote the oneness of mind and body. It wasn’t just about relaxation but about restoring mobility and circulation—a concept that still holds true today.

This experience deepened my appreciation for how massage and movement go hand in hand. Whether for recovery, fitness, or self-care, the principles of Swedish Massage remain relevant. Have you ever connected massage with exercise in your wellness routine?