Found this description of a Swedish massage on the Internet and thought it was a perfect description 🙂

“It is a technique designed to help the muscles in the body relax by
applying pressure and then rubbing it in the same direction as the flow
of blood returning to the heart.

Unlike other methods of massage therapy, this was first developed in
the 18th century.

It is also called the “classic massage” because it represents the
Western way of relaxing those muscles.

The main purpose of the Swedish massage then and now is still the
same.

This is to increase the flow of oxygen in the blood so toxins are
released from the muscles.

These toxins include lactic and uric acid as well as metabolic
waste.  When this happens, circulation is increased without increasing
the heart load.

The ligaments and tendons are both stretched keeping them supple and
pliable. This also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes
the nerves at the same time. As a result, stress is reduced.”