04/01/2023
WHICH TYPE OF MASSAGE IS RIGHT FOR ME?
We all love a good massage, but how do you know which one is right for you? Massages vary greatly in strength and technique, using a variety of methods that consist of physical stimulation of your muscles and your skin. So how can you tell the difference between massage styles? In this blog I thought I would explain the difference between three of my most common massages: Sports massage, Deep Tissue/advanced massage and Swedish massage.
Sports massage - not just for the sports person! I think a better way of explaining this type of massage is a strong, area specific massage. With this type of massage I aim to help prevent injuries by assessing you and focusing on small niggles and imbalances that could become bigger problems. This style of massage can also help in the recovery from a recent injury. My sports massage clients range from 80-year-old arthritic clients to professional rowers, runners and rugby players; I can cater my massages to suit everyone.
Deep tissue/Advanced massage - A firm massage that doesn't focus on a specific injury or one smaller area of the body. A Deep tissue massage is designed to relieve muscle tension, reduce stress and break down any tight knots. Unlike a deep tissue massage you may have had at a spa, I won't pass over a knot and ignore it, I will spend time working on reducing the build-up of toxins in the tissues, with the aim of increasing blood flow through the muscles. A deep tissue massage can be requested to be a full body massage, or focused on lower limbs or upper body. At the end of the massage you will feel relaxed and rejuvenated.
Swedish massage - Whether you are a newbie to massage or a massage veteran, you can be sure to be pleased by a Swedish massage. This is a full body oil massage that covers the entire body and is guaranteed to leave you feeling deeply relaxed.
Swedish massage aims to relax your entire body by using a variety of techniques to manipulate the soft tissue of different muscle groups around the body, releasing any built-up tension in the muscles. This kind of massage is the perfect antidote for if you have general aches and pains in your back, for example. As everyone is different, I will ask you what kind of pressure you prefer and then apply a light or medium pressure to your body, depending on your preference. I will also ask if there are any particular areas on which you would like the massage to be targeted e.g. you might have tight shoulders or a stiff neck which I can spend a bit longer on during the massage.
Aside from feeling gloriously relaxed, I suppose you’re wondering what other benefits there are?
You might be quite surprised to know that Swedish massage has been proven to help provide a vast array of benefits for the mind and body, such as;
Reducing depression, stress and fatigue
Encouraging improved sleep quality and helping to reduce insomnia
Providing an improved sense of wellbeing
An overall relaxed and revitalized feeling
So, to sum up the above styles very quickly.
If you have an injury or specific area you want to look at then I would recommend a sports massage.
If you want a firm, general massage then I would recommend a deep tissue massage.
If you’re looking for a deeply soothing and rejuvenating massage then I would recommend a Swedish Massage.
I hope the information above helps you make your decision. If you would like any more information, or if you have a specific question please do not hesitate to call or message me on - 07875249419