Swedish massage involves long, kneading strokes combined with rhythmic tapping strokes and movement of the joints.

Before the massage begins, your therapist will talk to you about your health and lifestyle. They will ask you to lie on a specially-designed massage table and will cover you with towels to protect your privacy and to keep you warm. They will probably use creams or oils to help them to massage your skin smoothly.

The four most common strokes used in Swedish massage are:

• Effleurage: smooth, gliding strokes to relax soft tissue
• Petrissage: squeezing, rolling, or kneading
• Friction: deep, circular movements to increase blood flow and break down scar tissue
• Tapotement: tapping with cupped hands, fingers, or the edge of the hand
• Vibration