Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is one of the world’s most popular and widely practised massage therapies. It is designed to promote relaxation, improve circulation, ease muscular tension, and support overall health and wellbeing.

OBJECTIVE

This course aims to develop professional competence in Swedish Massage, enabling learners to safely and effectively deliver Swedish massage treatments to the general public. Upon completion, learners will gain the practical and theoretical skills required to perform Swedish massage using correct techniques, hygiene and sanitation standards, professional client care, and appropriate aftercare advice. Graduates will be prepared to pursue employment opportunities in the local and global spa and wellness industry and may also establish their own wellness practice or business, including a wellness center or spa, as well as mobile and home-visit massage services.

PRE-REQUISITE

No prior experience is required. The Certificate in Swedish Massage is open to all candidates.

MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION

English / Sinhala

CURRICULUM

1. Introduction to Swedish Massage
Definition and purpose of Swedish Massage
History and origins of body massage therapy
Role of Swedish Massage in modern wellness

2. Health, Safety & Hygiene
Importance of hygiene and sanitation in practice
Health & safety in treatment settings
Risk assessment
Contra-indications and contra-actions
Infection control and safe working practices

3. Anatomy & Physiology for Massage
Skeletal system
Muscular system
Circulation (blood & lymphatic)
Nervous system functions
Respiratory system basics
Skin structure and function
Digestive, endocrine, and urinary system overview

4. Client Consultation & Preparation
Consultation techniques
Client history, needs, and expectations
Contra-indications and referral procedures
Client preparation and modesty

5. Swedish Massage Techniques
Effleurage (long, gliding strokes)
Petrissage (kneading, lifting)
Friction techniques
Tapotement (percussion)
Vibration movements
General principles of pressure, rhythm and sequence
Working with different mediums and skin types

6. Full Body Swedish Massage Sequence
Upper limbs
Lower limbs
Back and shoulders
Neck and décolleté
Abdomen
Face and scalp

7. Practical Treatment Skills
Therapist posture and body mechanics
Setting up a professional treatment space
Draping and client comfort
Use of equipment and massage mediums
Safe application and sequencing of techniques

8. Professionalism & Business Awareness
Professional conduct and ethics
Legal considerations and responsibilities
Record keeping
Client care and aftercare advice
Setting up your own practice
Marketing and career pathways

ASSESSMENT

Theoretical Examination: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) exam

Practical Examination: Client Consultation and 1-hour Swedish massage

Assignments

Case studies

GRADING CRITERIA

The overall qualification is graded:

Pass – 60% – 74%

Merit – 75% – 89%

Distinction – 90%-100%

The collective mark is formed by multiple-choice questions, practical exam, assignments, and case studies.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

On successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:

• Conduct professional client consultations, complete treatment plans, and identify contraindications and precautions.

• Apply safe and effective Swedish massage techniques using correct posture, pressure control, and body mechanics.

• Deliver structured full-body Swedish massage treatments tailored to individual client needs and comfort levels.

• Apply essential anatomy and physiology knowledge to support safe, effective, and results-focused massage practice.

• Maintain international standards of hygiene and sanitation, health & safety, and ethical professional conduct.

• Provide appropriate aftercare and home-care advice to support client recovery, wellbeing, and treatment results.

• Demonstrate professional communication and service standards suitable for spa, wellness center, and clinic environments.

• Be prepared to pursue employment opportunities in the local and global spa and wellness industry, or work independently by setting up a professional wellness practice or business, including a wellness center or spa, as well as mobile and home-visit massage services.

CERTIFICATION

Certificate in Swedish Massage

Accredited by International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine, UK

Your Life Wellness Certificate in Swedish Massage certification qualifies you to join IPHM therapist membership and receive an identification card and insurance.

The certificate in Swedish Massage course is registered under the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission of Sri Lanka.