Free Shipping
over $250.00
Why Swedish?
Why Is Swedish Massage Called “Swedish”? A Historical Look at the Name—and How It Differs from Thai Massage
Today, Swedish massage is one of the most widely taught and requested massage styles in the Western world. Known for its long, gliding strokes, kneading, and gentle pressure, it’s often considered the foundation of modern therapeutic massage in North America. But where did the term “Swedish massage” actually come from—and what makes it distinct from modalities like Thai massage?
The Origins of Swedish Massage: Not Entirely Swedish
The term “Swedish massage” is a bit of a historical misnomer. The system of massage techniques commonly referred to as Swedish massage today is loosely attributed to Pehr Henrik Ling, a 19th-century Swedish physiologist and fencing instructor. Ling developed a system of physical education known as the Swedish Movement Cure, which included structured exercises and passive manipulations—some of which resembled massage techniques.
Although Per Henrik Ling is often credited with creating Swedish massage, his original system was more focused on gymnastics and physical rehabilitation than hands-on massage.
However, Ling’s method was primarily a system of medical gymnastics rather than what we would recognize as hands-on massage therapy. His system became well known throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the United States, where it was interpreted and expanded upon by physicians and bodyworkers.
The actual techniques of what we now call Swedish massage—effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), friction, tapotement (percussion), and vibration—were more formally codified by Dutch practitioner Johan Georg Mezger in the late 19th century. Mezger used French terminology to describe the techniques and helped standardize them as therapeutic methods. Ironically, it was outside of Sweden that the practice was popularized under the name “Swedish massage.”
Why “Swedish Massage” Stuck
In the English-speaking world, especially in North America, the term “Swedish massage” became a convenient label to distinguish this relatively gentle, oil-based, table-based style of bodywork from other global practices. The name acknowledged its vague Scandinavian roots while serving as a contrast to more vigorous or traditional styles like Russian or Asian massage systems.
“Swedish massage” became the default term in North America to describe a standardized, Western approach to therapeutic touch.
By the 20th century, Swedish massage had become the standard taught in many Western massage schools, particularly in the U.S. and Canada, where licensure and certification often used Swedish massage techniques as a foundational curriculum.
How Swedish Massage Differs from Thai Massage
While both Swedish and Thai massage aim to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and reduce muscular tension, the similarities largely end there. Here’s how they compare:
- Technique & Pressure: Swedish massage uses long, gliding strokes and kneading, often with oil, on bare skin. Thai massage involves rhythmic pressing, stretching, and assisted yoga-like movements, usually done fully clothed and without oil.
- Positioning: Swedish massage is performed on a padded table with the client covered by a sheet. Thai massage is typically performed on a floor mat, and the client is moved into various postures during the session.
- Origins & Philosophy: Swedish massage is rooted in Western anatomy and physiology. Thai massage has roots in Ayurveda, Buddhist medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine, and follows energy lines known as sen.
- Pace: Swedish massage is generally slow and relaxing. Thai massage is often more stimulating and active, involving rocking, compression, and stretching.
Thai massage is often described as “lazy man’s yoga,” while Swedish massage is more passive, with the client simply relaxing on the table.
The Takeaway
Despite the name, Swedish massage as we know it is a Western blend of therapeutic techniques that evolved from both Swedish and Dutch contributions. Its enduring popularity lies in its gentle, accessible approach and its adaptability to a wide range of client needs. In contrast, Thai massage offers a more energetic, movement-based approach grounded in Eastern healing traditions.
Understanding these origins not only helps us appreciate the richness of massage history, but also allows us to make more informed choices about the types of bodywork we offer—or receive.
Featured collection
-
$0.00 - $0.00$0.00Lowest Price per ml: $0.06
$14.99 - $59.99$14.99 - $59.99Current priceCurrent Price: $34.99
Price Per ml: $0.06
$14.99Golden Jojoba Oil
BodyBestIn stockUses and Benefits of Golden Jojoba Oil Golden Jojoba Oil is one of the best massage oils as it can be used for both scalp and body. It is deeply mo...
View full details$0.00 - $0.00$0.00Lowest Price per ml: $0.06
$14.99 - $59.99$14.99 - $59.99Current priceCurrent Price: $34.99
Price Per ml: $0.06
$14.99 -
$0.00 - $0.00$0.00Lowest Price per ml: $0.03
$11.99 - $29.99$11.99 - $29.99Current priceCurrent Price: $11.99
Price Per ml: $0.04
$11.99Castor Oil
BodyBestIn stockUses and Benefits of Castor Oil Castor oil is a healing oil that helps soothe muscle aches. Rich in antioxidants, the oil prevents wrinkles, reliev...
View full details$0.00 - $0.00$0.00Lowest Price per ml: $0.03
$11.99 - $29.99$11.99 - $29.99Current priceCurrent Price: $11.99
Price Per ml: $0.04
$11.99 -
$0.00 - $0.00$0.00
Lowest Price per ml: $0.02
$29.99 - $99.99$29.99 - $99.99Current priceCurrent Price: $29.99
Price Per ml: $0.02
$29.99Grapeseed Oil
BodyBestOut of stockUses and Benefits of Grape seed Oil Grape seed oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In addition, the oil is rich in omega chain ...
View full details$0.00 - $0.00$0.00Lowest Price per ml: $0.02
$29.99 - $99.99$29.99 - $99.99Current priceCurrent Price: $29.99
Price Per ml: $0.02
$29.99Sold out -
$0.00 - $0.00$0.00$29.99$29.99 - $29.99Current price$29.99
Apricot Oil Cold Pressed 1L
BodyBestOut of stockUltrasonic Aromatherapy Diffuser – Modern, Quiet, and Effective Enhance your space with the soothing benefits of aromatherapy using our Ultrasonic...
View full details$0.00 - $0.00$0.00$29.99$29.99 - $29.99Current price$29.99Sold out -
$0.00 - $0.00$0.00Lowest Price per ml: $22.00
$24.99 - $109.99$24.99 - $109.99Current priceCurrent Price: $24.99
Price Per ml: $24.99
$24.99Coconut Oil Cold Pressed Unfractionated
BodyBestLow stockBenefits of Body Best Cold Pressed Unfractionated Coconut Oil Body Best Cold Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil has wonderful healing properties for your...
View full details$0.00 - $0.00$0.00Lowest Price per ml: $22.00
$24.99 - $109.99$24.99 - $109.99Current priceCurrent Price: $24.99
Price Per ml: $24.99
$24.99
