Effective July 1, 2026, My Practice is Relocating to a Nearby Location within Pickering
Swedish Massage is the standard form of massage we have become familiar with in Spas and Wellness Clinics in North America. Technically, it is the use of massage techniques to manipulate the muscles and connective tissues of the body. Each therapist is equally taught how to perform these techniques. It is the way in which they apply these techniques that make each therapist unique.
Massage is one of the oldest therapies dating back to the Ancient Times. It comes from the French word defined as “friction of kneading”. In actuality, the term “Swedish Massage” is only recognized in English and Dutch speaking countries. In other places of the world it is referred to as “Classic Massage”. In the 1800s a Dutch practitioner named Johann Georg Mezger developed a system of techniques for treating patients that are still used today. The five basic strokes identified by Mezger are named after their French terms:
Effleurage - Long sliding or gliding strokes
Petrissage – Kneading of the muscles
Friction – Firm, cross-fibre or with-fibre strokes
Tapotement – Tapping or percussive movements
Vibration – Light or Aggressive Shaking movements
A typical massage treatment will incorporate the use of several of these techniques throughout a session. All Registered Massage Therapists learn these same techniques. What makes each Therapist unique is the way in which they apply these techniques.
Between the 1940s and the 1970s massage was largely used by nurses to help reduce their patient's pain and promote sleeping. In the 1970s Massage grew in popularity largely due to its influence among athletes. Today Massage Therapy has shown its relevance in the medical industry as a valuable therapeutic tool to help manage pain, fatigue, joint stiffness, and improve overall function.
Loosen tight muscles and stretch connective tissue
Relieve muscle spasms, and decrease muscle fatigue
Improve range of motion
Calm the nervous system
Stimulate blood circulation
Relieving repetitive strain injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, myofacial pain, headaches, athletic injuries
Speed healing
Improve lymphatic drainage
Mental relaxation
Improve sleep
Relief of stress, depression, anxiety
Improve concentration