A Swedish full body massage is a type of massage therapy that involves long, soft, kneading strokes to release tension from the deepest muscles of the body. It is the most common massage method today and is primarily used to promote relaxation and tension relief. During a Swedish massage, a client lays unclothed (underwear optional) on a massage bed, draped between two sheets. The therapist will use massage oil or lotion to protect the skin from friction and will use four common strokes: effleurage, petrissage, friction, and tapotement. The massage usually starts with the effleurage stroke, which is a smooth, gliding stroke that relaxes soft tissue. Then, the petrissage stroke is used, which involves kneading, rolling, and squeezing. Friction strokes are used to treat scar tissue and heal injuries, while tapotement involves tapping with cupped hands, fingers, or the edge of the hand. A Swedish full body massage can help relieve stress, anxiety, muscle tension, and pain, and can also improve blood circulation and boost immunity.