스웨디시
History of Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is one of the most widely known massage techniques today, and it is established as a representative management method that symbolizes rest and relaxation. Techniques that take into account smooth and regular touches and flow of the body have become the norm for modern massage, but it originated from an attempt to understand the human body scientifically, not just a healing culture.
The origin of Swedish massage dates back to Sweden in the early 19th century. During this period, the working environment rapidly changed due to the influence of the Industrial Revolution in Europe, and physical fatigue and disease were emerging as social problems. In this background of the times, a movement to systematically manage the functions of the body appeared, and at the center was Fer Henrik Ring. As a physicalist and medical researcher, he studied the correlation between human movement and health and invented 'Swedish gymnastics' that combined exercise, massage, and breathing.
In Ring's theory, massage was not just an auxiliary tool, but an important factor in helping the body recover. He saw that hand stimulation had a positive effect on muscles, joints, and nervous systems, and emphasized an approach that respects the natural flow of the body rather than excessive force. This idea will later lead to the core principles of Swedish massage.
After Ling's death, his theory was further embodied by his disciples and his descendants. In particular, Johann Georg Metzger systematically classified and named massage movements, and raised Swedish massage to the academic field. Through this, Swedish massage began to be recognized as a medical adjuvant therapy beyond folk therapy, and quickly spread throughout Europe.
Since the end of the 19th century, Swedish massage has spread to the United States and has faced a new change. This technique, which was used in the fields of rehabilitation therapy and sports medicine, gradually developed into a management method that focuses on relieving stress and stabilizing the mind and body. The soft pressure and rhythmic movements were highly popular with the public, and the Swedish massage became the most accessible massage. 스웨디시
Today, Swedish massage is evaluated as the basis standard for various massage techniques. Although the method of use has changed depending on the times and purpose, the essence of respecting the human body and placing importance on balance and circulation has not changed. The history of Swedish massage can be said to be a record of long human efforts and inquiry that have pursued a healthy life.