Treatment guide
Lomi Lomi and Swedish Massage
Swedish massage and Lomi Lomi are both respected bodywork traditions, but they come from different histories and offer different rhythms of care.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a Western massage tradition that became systematized in the nineteenth century through the work associated with Per Henrik Ling and Johan Mezger. It uses a defined set of techniques that remain foundational in spa and therapeutic bodywork.
- Effleurage: long, gliding strokes, often moving toward the heart.
- Petrissage: kneading and lifting tissue to address tightness.
- Tapotement: rhythmic tapping or percussion.
- Friction and vibration: focused movements used to warm tissue and encourage release.
Lomi Lomi
Lomi Lomi is a Hawaiian and Polynesian healing practice. The word means to knead, rub, or soothe, and the session is known for long, flowing strokes that may use the hands and forearms with rhythmic, wave-like movement.
Its deeper distinction is cultural and philosophical: Lomi Lomi is traditionally approached as holistic care, with prayerful intention and attention to the whole person, not only the muscles.
How to choose
Swedish massage may be the right fit when you want a structured, familiar approach to easing muscle tension and improving relaxation. Lomi Lomi may be the right fit when you want a more flowing, nurturing session that feels spacious, rhythmic, and restorative.
Angela can help choose the pressure, pacing, and style that match what your body needs that day.