20/11/2025
Most people think Swedish massage simply means “relaxation”…
but its history is far richer (and more therapeutic!) than most realise.
Swedish massage actually began in the early 1800s, created by Per Henrik Ling — a Swedish gymnast and physician who developed a full system of therapeutic movement and soft-tissue work.
Later, Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger formalised the strokes we still use today:
effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction and vibration.
These techniques were originally designed to improve circulation, mobility and recovery - not just relaxation.
So how did it become known as “relaxation massage”?
*Over time, Swedish massage became the foundation taught in most massage schools.
*Spas adopted the techniques for calming the nervous system and softening stress.
*And gradually, the public started calling it “relaxation” simply because it felt so soothing.
But here’s the truth:
Swedish massage is the backbone of modern Western bodywork.
It’s used today for:
-stress relief
- nervous-system regulation
-pain management
-improving circulation
-supporting remedial and therapeutic treatments
So the next time you book a “relaxation” massage, know that you’re actually experiencing a centuries-old healing practice with deep therapeutic roots.
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