Developed in the early 19th century by Swedish physiologist Henri Peter Ling, Swedish massage can be very gentle, or somewhat intense, depending on the masseuse's style and the client's tolerance. In a Swedish massage, the masseuse might rub oil onto your body with long, gliding strokes, a kneading motion, vibration, or tapping in order to urge muscles to purge lactic acid, improve circulation, and foster a general sense of relaxation.

Now here is my type of massage. Literally. This is the type of massage that I am licensed in. Although in the above quote, I do take offense to being called a "masseuse" as the politically correct terms are either "massage therapist" or "massage practitioner".

I treated myself to my first massage while I was in college and recouperating from finals week. Within that hour, my life changed for good. First of all, my massage therapist was nothing like I had expected. In my prejudiced mind, I had pictured a very large woman that probably wasn't too easy on the eyes. And wow was I wrong. Michelle was young and pretty. She dressed in the the funky/trendy clothes that I dressed in, with her own flair. She was kind and funny.

As far as the actual treatment was concerned, I hadn't ever been so relaxed in my life. The soft table, low lights and the slow music were heaven. The massage was perfect. A blend of light and deep strokes with such a nurturing touch that I almost started to cry before I fell asleep.

From then on, I scrimped and saved and checked couch cushions to afford a monthly massage. My whole outlook on my life changed. I slowed down and noticed the world around me instead of rushing from class to class. I was a massage advocate for my friends