People who want a massage are often confused between the different forms or types of massage.
Much worse, they often tend to identify them as the same things, when in fact most types of massage are unique.
This happens frequently with Swedish massages and the deep tissue massage . The two types of massage are considered by some to be the same, however, you have to figure out the details to know that the two are not really similar at all.
When clients are planning a massage, the most frequently asked questions of our massage therapists are usually “what is the difference between a Swedish massage and a deep tissue massage?” or “which one would you recommend?”
For starters, most people know they’re looking for something to loosen up tight muscles, target pressure points, and relax, but they’re still not quite sure what to ask for.
In the end, they tend to choose the option that they feel is the least invasive and the most comfortable.
For this reason, the Swedish massage which is in fact a relaxation massage is often the most requested massage. And while massage therapists can do their best to provide recommendations, you can have better results if you understand the basic differences between the two types of massage and decide for yourself what you really need.
Swedish massage
Introduced in 1812, Swedish massage has five basic principles, which include:
- Give long and gentle movements;
- Gentle kneading of muscles;
- The application of therapeutic friction;
- The tapping;
- The constant vibration.
The combination of these techniques ensures maximum circulation and relaxation which develops the flexibility of the person being massaged. It is no wonder that a large number of people these days have wanted to learn the art of Swedish massage.
In addition, Swedish massage uses a sheet to cover certain parts of the body during the session itself. This sheet is then moved systematically throughout the massage. Overall, a Swedish massage is meant to be relaxing because it is a serene and calming form of massage.
Deep tissue massage
The other very popular type of massage is deep tissue massage.
It targets three central muscle regions, namely:
- The neck area;
- The back region;
- The region of the fascia or connective tissue.
Massage goes by this name because it is really meant to penetrate deeper into the underlying muscle layers. Deep tissue massage is intended to carefully relieve all those tense muscles below the surface.
Additionally, many of the principles used for deep tissue massage are also present in Swedish massage, but deep tissue massage is somewhat more energetic in nature.
Additionally, this form of massage focuses on problematic or painful areas, meaning it targets stiff muscle areas that are overworked, rather than constantly working on the back and neck areas.
However, no matter how naturally intense this massage can be, it won’t hurt as much as many people have come to believe.
In summary
Swedish massage is a gentler and more serene massage than deep tissue massage which is more intense and powerful.
Swedish massage is ideal for those with very sensitive skin types, who easily endure rashes, especially when strong friction and rubbing is applied.
Swedish massage is the massage of choice for those who are normally stressed by problems at work or at home.
Deep tissue massage is for those who suffer from chronic pain, who have participated in many strenuous activities, or who are continually troubled by previous injuries.
