I originally wrote this article for the health magazine Topphälsa about different forms of massage.
What Happens in the Body During Massage?
Physical touch activates the body’s own “calm and relaxation hormone” – oxytocin – which is produced in the hypothalamus in the brain. This powerful anti-stress system allows the body to rest and heal after being exposed to internal or external stress.
Around the world, very different massage traditions have developed. Some are several thousand years old, while others are relatively new.
Topphälsa has explored the massage jungle and identified some of the most interesting methods.
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
Massage therapist Elisabeth Oberst at Mera Uppåt in Stockholm explains that the lymphatic system is a rather forgotten function of the body.
While blood circulation transports nutrients that are filtered and delivered to the tissues, physical movement is what activates the lymphatic flow, which is responsible for cleansing. The lymphatic system is the body’s waste disposal system – it is in the lymph nodes that purification takes place.
Sometimes blockages occur when fluid does not flow as it should – for example due to lack of movement, prolonged sitting, poor diet or stress. Waste products then remain in the tissues, which can become visible as cellulite, swelling, reduced health and diminished wellbeing.
By massaging the body using specific, gentle movements – particularly working into connective tissue and fatty tissue – the therapist manually supports lymphatic flow. Lymphatic drainage massage is a form of cleansing therapy for waste products. Circulation and metabolism improve, swelling decreases, and Elisabeth Oberst describes how it can feel almost like sculpting the body.
The body often reacts immediately, and cleansing begins quickly. After just a few treatments, the skin can become noticeably firmer, and it is even possible to lose several kilos of excess fluid.
Lymphatic drainage massage is known for being very gentle and kind, but Elisabeth Oberst combines these soft movements with deeper muscle massage when needed.
“If I feel that a muscle is tense, I naturally soften it. It’s about sensing the client – all bodies are different,” she says.
The treatment begins with long strokes, all directed towards the lymphatic flow – meaning towards the armpits rather than downward. Elisabeth presses and draws over the entire body: pelvis, legs, arms, up over the back and shoulders, and finally the abdomen. She emphasises that the abdomen is very important, as much waste tends to accumulate there.
After the massage, I feel both deeply relaxed and energised.
Ayurvedic / Abhyanga Massage
What it is:
A full-body massage using warm Ayurvedic oil in generous amounts, performed on a wooden or plastic-covered table. The therapist works slowly with long, flowing strokes over the entire body. The massage is said to have rejuvenating and deeply relaxing effects.
Benefits:
Extremely relaxing and pleasant.
Drawbacks:
You are completely naked, and it is very oily.
Who it’s for:
Those who are comfortable being fully unclothed and are not seeking muscle-focused massage.
Aromatherapy Massage
What it is:
The therapist selects an essential oil based on the client’s needs, which is blended into the massage oil. All senses are activated and balanced. Aromatherapy is primarily a relaxation massage.
Benefits:
Deeply relaxing. Said to counteract stress and especially beneficial for burnout. Excellent as a preventive practice.
Drawbacks:
Not suitable for people sensitive to scents.
Who it’s for:
Ideal for those seeking a pleasurable experience and deep relaxation.
Breema
What it is:
A combination of touch and movement-based bodywork. You are gently rocked and cradled by the therapist while light strokes are applied. A deeply relaxing technique, somewhat reminiscent of Thai massage.
Benefits:
You remain fully clothed. Very nourishing and emotionally calming.
Drawbacks:
Little muscle massage – this is more of a therapeutic modality.
Who it’s for:
Those who prefer to stay clothed, or who have tried many therapies and want to experience something new.
Energy Massage
What it is:
The head, back, hands, shoulders and arms are massaged energetically. The therapist applies extra pressure to acupuncture points for a quick energy boost. The massage is performed while seated, fully clothed, often in public spaces. Based on traditional Japanese massage.
Benefits:
Quick energy renewal. Refreshing and invigorating.
Drawbacks:
Not very intimate or relaxing due to the public setting.
Who it’s for:
For everyone, especially those who want a fast energy boost and don’t have time for a traditional massage.
Fibromyalgia Massage
What it is:
A gentle massage developed specifically for people with fibromyalgia or low pain tolerance. The therapist uses classic massage techniques without deep pressure. Very relaxing and stress-reducing.
Benefits:
Releases large amounts of oxytocin. Deeply calming.
Drawbacks:
Not for those seeking deep muscle work.
Who it’s for:
People experiencing burnout, chronic pain, or those who need profound relaxation.
Pregnancy Massage
What it is:
A massage adapted specifically for pregnancy. Neither the abdomen nor lower back is massaged. Oils are mild and adapted for sensitive senses. The table has an opening for the belly, creating a sensation of weightlessness.
Benefits:
The specially designed table is a major advantage.
Drawbacks:
None.
Who it’s for:
Pregnant women.
Classic / Swedish Massage
What it is:
What we call classic massage in Sweden is internationally known as Swedish massage, developed by Per Henrik Ling in the 19th century. It stretches, softens and mobilises muscles.
Benefits:
A familiar, reliable massage that improves flexibility and circulation.
Drawbacks:
Can sometimes be painful.
Who it’s for:
Everyone – especially those with stiff bodies, sore muscles and joint issues.
LPG / Endermologie
What it is:
Mechanical connective tissue massage. Developed by Frenchman Louis Paul Guitay, this machine uses suction to lift skin and subcutaneous fat. A special bodysuit prevents pinching. Fat cells are stimulated and circulation increases.
Benefits:
Passive cellulite treatment and a cheaper alternative to liposuction. Results visible after 3–10 sessions.
Drawbacks:
Can feel strange or intimidating, though painless. Not relaxing.
Who it’s for:
Those seeking body contouring and cellulite reduction.
Hawaiian Massage / Lomi Lomi
What it is:
Lomi Lomi mimics the sound of ocean waves. A full-body massage performed to Hawaiian music, combining deep pressure with flowing strokes.
Benefits:
Deeply relaxing, balancing and luxurious.
Drawbacks:
None.
Who it’s for:
Everyone – the therapist adapts to individual needs.
Revolving
What it is:
“Re” means recreate, “volving” means movement. This massage corrects muscular imbalances while inducing deep relaxation. Movements can create an almost electric sensation on the skin.
Benefits:
Deep relaxation, body feels lighter afterwards.
Drawbacks:
None.
Who it’s for:
Everyone – both muscle massage and relaxation.
Rolfing
What it is:
Addresses stiffness and posture by working deeply with fingers, knuckles and elbows. Performed lying down, sitting or standing.
Benefits:
Thorough, full-body restructuring.
Drawbacks:
Can be painful.
Who it’s for:
Those with posture issues, back pain, or who want to reorganise the body.
Shiatsu
What it is:
A Japanese massage technique similar to Thai massage. Pressure is applied along meridians while the client lies fully clothed on a futon.
Benefits:
Increases energy, balance and flexibility.
Drawbacks:
Can sometimes be painful.
Who it’s for:
Everyone, especially those with stiffness and low energy.
Spa Massage
What it is:
A relaxation massage where atmosphere, scents and environment are central. More indulgence than therapy.
Benefits:
Reduces stress and offers deep relaxation. Excellent as a gift.
Drawbacks:
Not therapeutic.
Who it’s for:
Anyone needing care and escape from everyday life.
Taoist Massage
What it is:
Stimulates nerve endings rather than muscles. Rooted in Taoist philosophy, focusing on balance of body and mind.
Benefits:
Relaxing, often combined with Tai Chi or Qigong.
Drawbacks:
May feel vague or “fluffy” to some.
Who it’s for:
Those interested in spiritual development and energy practices.
Thai Massage
What it is:
Often called “lazy yoga.” Performed fully clothed on a mat. The therapist stretches and presses the body using hands, elbows, knees and feet.
Benefits:
Highly stimulating, improves flexibility and energy.
Drawbacks:
Can be painful. Important to find a skilled therapist.
Who it’s for:
Everyone – especially “lazy yogis.”
Tuina
What it is:
Chinese therapeutic massage activating the body’s energy system using hands instead of needles. Affects muscles, skeleton and internal organs.
Benefits:
Healing and therapeutic.
Drawbacks:
Not for those seeking relaxation only.
Who it’s for:
People with back pain, nerve issues, depression, insomnia or general discomfort.