Deep Tissue, Swedish
& Therapeutic Massage

SWEDISH MASSAGE

Swedish Massage is what comes to mind when most people think about massage. One of the primary goals of Swedish massage is to relax the entire body. This is accomplished by massaging the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. But Swedish massage therapy goes beyond relaxation. It is exceptionally beneficial for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, improving circulation and flexibility while easing tension.

A study conducted by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine and published in The New York Times found that volunteers who received a 45-minute Swedish massage experienced significant decreases in levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as arginine vasopressin-a hormone that can lead to increases in cortisol. Volunteers also had increases in the number of white blood cells that are part of the immune system, and a boost in the immune cells that may help fight colds and flu.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Deep Tissue Massage is similar to Swedish Massage, but the deeper pressure is beneficial in releasing chronic muscle tension. The focus is on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons and fascia (connective tissue), bones and joints.

ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS TO DEEP TISSUE massage?

The side effects of Deep Tissue Massage vary from person to person — and it can even vary depending on what’s going on in your body on the day you're receiving a massage.

Typically, people may feel more muscle soreness for a day or two after the massage, especially if you've requested a strong massage. A Deep Tissue Massage shouldn’t cause horrible pain — and if it does you need to tell your therapist to use less pressure. However, if they’ve been working your muscles, you will probably feel some soreness. Give your body time to recover.

THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Therapeutic massage is a combination of Swedish
and Deep Tissue combined to relax your whole body while working through some of the muscle issues or “tight spots” you may be experiencing.

People tend to assume therapeutic massage means a Deep Tissue massage, and that they will get a very strong massage. But this is not always the case. It may not be what you need on a particular day. Our therapists will apply the specific techniques and the right amount of pressure to address your need, and sometimes that’s a lighter touch with deeper strokes added where necessary.

Therapeutic goals can vary considerably between massage therapists and clients. In some cases, massage is recommended by a health professional and may be performed as part of a larger treatment plan. For example, someone using physical therapy for an injury might have regular massage to loosen muscles, improve muscle tone and increase their flexibility.