You are at the spa browsing the menu of services. You are ready to just get on the table and relax but no, now you are confronted with one more thing to stress you out before you can finally just get on with it: Swedish massage or deep tissue massage?
As if you really needed too add one more pound of stress to your already stressed state! Your mind races back and forth, reading the vague descriptions of the two. “What’s the difference anyway?” you think, “And why is deep tissue $10 more than the Swedish?”
Let me lighten your load a bit. Let’s take a look at the difference between Swedish and Deep Tissue massage and let me help you determine which one is right for you at any given time.
First off, contrary to popular belief, deep tissue massage does not have to be painful in order to be effective. While it usually involves the application of deep pressure, this is not necessarily always the case. The defining feature of deep tissue massage is that it works the deeper layers of the muscles and connective tissues. This can be accomplished in any number of ways and there are a multitude of approaches and techniques to deep tissue massage some of which require the application of direct sustained pressure such as trigger point therapy, and others which rely on the use of active stretching techniques to release the deeper layers of the muscles and connective tissues such as in the myofascial release approaches.
Because deep tissue massage addresses the deeper layers of the muscles it’s effects are often longer lasting than those of Swedish or “relaxation” massage. Deep tissue work is often more focused on a particular issue occurring in a specific area of the body. Choose deep tissue work when you have chronic issues with an area of your body such as low back or shoulder pain, or when you are seeking more in depth therapeutic work to address an acute issue that could turn chronic if left untreated. Alternatively some people just like more pressure and prefer the deep tissue massage to its gentler cousin Swedish massage.
Swedish massage is the classis “relaxation” massage and is an ideal choice for those looking for general stress relief and relaxation. A great choice for post workout recovery, Swedish massage can help to remove lactic acid buildup in the muscles, increase circulation to joints and tissues, and aid in improving digestion and sleep. The Swedish massage technique is very nurturing. It can also be gentle or applied deep in the case of deep or firm Swedish massage. Generally speaking though, Swedish massage addresses the more superficial layers of the muscles and connective tissue. A great choice for those seeking general stress relief or who dislike deep pressure. Swedish massage is also a great choice to use as a maintenance approach in between deep tissue massage sessions.
Oh yeah, and why is deep tissue massage typically priced higher than Swedish massage at the spa? This is because deep tissue work requires more from the therapist. Performing deep tissue massage not only requires more of the therapists energy but also of their expertise. Specific training in deep tissue skills are also necessary and not all therapists will have the same training. When choosing a therapist for deep tissue work it may be helpful to inquire about their experience and training in deep tissue massage as there can be A LOT of variation in the skill level, technique, competence and approach between therapists.
Contact Serenity’s Touch at 905-465-1313 to book you massage!