It involves soft, long, kneading strokes, as well as light, rhythmic, tapping strokes, on topmost layers of muscles. This is also combined with movement of the joints.
The four common strokes of Swedish massage are:
Effleurage: a smooth, gliding stroke used to relax soft tissue
Petrissage: the squeezing, rolling, or kneading that follows effleurage
Friction: deep, circular movements that cause layers of tissue to rub against each other, helping to increase blood flow and break down scar tissue
Tapotement: a short, alternating tap done with cupped hands, fingers, or the edge of the hand