The Difference Between Massage Modalities
So many choices when it comes to massages. Do you choose the Swedish Massage, Sports Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, or Sleep Massage? And really, what is a Prenatal Massage? There are over 350 modalities of massage and bodywork. These are the most popular, but there are some big differences between them. We’re going to break them down so you can choose the best massage for yourself. Of course we’re always the biggest fan of a massage at home.
Swedish Massage: The most common massage modality, Swedish Massages are designed to stimulate circulation through a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive, and tapping movements. There are five basic massage strokes that all flow toward the heart. These are used to manipulate the body’s soft tissue. A Swedish Massage is a great massage technique for those who want to relax as well as improve circulation.
Deep Tissue Massage: A Deep Tissue Massage uses techniques such as slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of muscles and connective tissues. It uses more pressure than a Swedish Massage and helps with chronic pain and injury. It also helps reduce inflammation-related pain that’s most commonly caused by arthritis and tendinitis.
Sports Massage: Sports Massages help increase flexibility and performance and can help relieve pain, anxiety, and muscle tension. During a Sports Massage, deep pressure is combined with soothing strokes and gentle assisted dynamic stretching.
Sleep Massage: A newer massage modality, Sleep Massages combine Swedish Massage techniques with reflexology, scalp massage, and face massages to help promote relaxation and better sleep. During a massage the body releases serotonin which is necessary for the production of melatonin – which helps one fall asleep and stay asleep. A relaxing Sleep Massage helps enhance a restorative night’s sleep. (And it doesn’t hurt that with Spa Theory the massage is in your home so you can roll into bed after!)
Prenatal Massage: A Prenatal Massage is a great way for expectant mothers to relieve back pain, improve sleep, lower stress, and it can even reduce labor complications. A Prenatal Massage is a lot like a Swedish Massage but avoids pressure on certain areas including the abdomen and legs. It also uses unique positions for comfort and safety such as being on the side or semi-reclined with pillows and boosters to avoid unnecessary pressure or disrupting blood flow.
