What is Swedish massage, and what is it good for?

Swedish massage is one of the best-known Western styles, done with or without oil, and the basis of many others, from aromatherapy to sports massage.

The five strokes

Effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration. Their order and pressure make a session calming or energizing.

What it is good for

Better circulation, less muscle tension, better sleep and lower stress. A sixty-minute session suits most people.