Today’s fast-paced world is taking its toll on all of us. Levels of stress, pain, and chronic illness are higher than ever before.
While modern medicine has its rightful place, many people are turning to natural, alternative modalities for relief from pain and stress. One such therapy is massage.
Chances are you’ve already experienced some of the benefits of massage for yourself. But with so many types of massage out there, how can you decide which type of massage is best for your needs?
In this post, we’ll explain the similarities (and differences) between deep tissue vs Swedish massage so you can make an informed decision. Read on to learn more!
What Is Swedish Massage?
As you might have guessed, Swedish massage developed in Sweden in the 1830s. The practice migrated across the Atlantic in the 1850s and is now the most popular type of massage in the US.
Swedish massage involves a combination of techniques and is generally performed using light-to-medium pressure. Your therapist will use their hands, forearms, and elbows to manipulate your muscles’ superficial layers. This includes long gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and tapping.
Most people find Swedish massage very calming and relaxing. It’s an ideal way to relieve stress and loosen areas of tension throughout your body.
What Is Deep Tissue Massage?
While Swedish massage focuses more on relaxation and the body as a whole, deep tissue massage is generally more targeted. If you have ongoing chronic pain or muscle tension, or you’re recovering from a sports injury, deep tissue massage can help to restore your body’s natural balance.
Your therapist will use deeper pressure to reach the inner layers of the muscles and break up those “knots” that cause pain and tension. They might also include some passive stretches to improve your flexibility and range of motion.
Of course, some people still want a full-body massage with deeper pressure than a Swedish massage, and that’s fine too. A skilled therapist will be able to combine techniques from both types of massage and customize your session to best suit your needs.
Deep Tissue vs Swedish Massage: Which Is Better?
As you can see, the goal of both types of massage is to decrease stress and muscle tension while improving circulation and range of motion. One isn’t “better” than the other—it really depends on what you (and your body) need on the treatment day.
Speaking of what your body needs, what are some specific health issues that massage can help you with? These include:
- Acute and chronic pain relief
- Improved nervous function
- Reduced depression and anxiety
- Better circulation
- Lower stress levels
- Improved quality of sleep
- Lowers blood pressure
- Eases side effects of cancer treatments
- Eliminates toxins
Whether you choose deep tissue or Swedish massage, these are just a few of the many benefits you’ll experience.
Ready to Book Your Next Massage?
Now that you understand the differences between deep tissue vs Swedish massage, are you ready to book a session?
Whether you’re dealing with high stress levels, chronic pain, or other health problems, we can help. Click here to learn more about Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and the other types of massage we offer.
Still not sure which modality is best for you? Give us a call at 970-748-1600 and our friendly staff will answer any questions you have.