Swedish massage did not originate in Sweden. In Europe, it's usually referred to as a classic massage, which was originally put together and created by Dutch practitioner John George Mezger.

It consists of specific strokes including efflurage (sliding movements), petrissage (kneading movements), friction (rubbing), vibration and percussion techniques. This massage will usually include passive and active joint movements, stretching and bending of the joints with the assistance of the therapist. Swedish massage is the most commonly offered massage technique, utilizing a firm or lighter pressure on the muscles. It will involve long yet gliding strokes. Swedish massage is mainly used to increase blood flow, easing tension in the body's muscles and improving their flexibility.