Swedish Massage Therapy’s primary goal is to help relax the body. Massage therapy can help with joint stiffness, improve the overall function of joints, increased flexibility, beneficial for improving circulation, increasing oxygen levels, detoxification of muscles (uric acid, lactic acid), decreasing stress hormones (argine vasopresion – A, and cortisol) easing tensions across the entire nervous system. All techniques are based on western concepts of anatomy and physiology, and involve manipulation of muscles over other tissues with hands, fingers, forearms, and elbows. Types of strokes (for a different folks) include effleurage (long gliding strokes towards the heart), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping), friction (cross finer), vibrations and shakings. Each treatment is tailored to the needs of the individual.