DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE
The term, "deep tissue," though can be misleading. A deep tissue massage is designed to target the deeper layers of muscles in your body and not necessarily to deliver deep pressure uniformly. The amount of pressure used in a deep tissue massage can vary greatly, from a light, superficial stroke designed to warm up the muscle, to a deeper, more focused application of pressure used to release tension.
A deep tissue massage should be slow and thorough, working through the muscle tissues layer by layer. This includes giving an increased amount of attention to the, “knots,” and trigger points found along the way. Any skilled therapist will tell you that they get much better results by allowing the tissue to respond on its own, and release under a slower, more focused approach as opposed to forcing it.
How it is different
Deep tissue massage targets deep areas of muscle, while other massage techniques may focus on superficial body regions.
What are the benefits of deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage offers both physical and psychological benefits. Unlike other massage techniques that focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage helps to treat muscle pain and improve stiffness. But it can still help to you unwind mentally, too.
What happens during the body massage?
Before your deep tissue massage, your massage therapist will want to know about your problem areas. A deep tissue massage can involve your entire body or just one area.
Once ready, you’ll be asked to lie on your back or stomach, under a sheet. Your level of undress is based on your comfort, but the area being worked on will need to be exposed.
The massage therapist will warm up your muscles using a lighter touch. Once you’re warmed up, they’ll start working on your problem areas. They’ll use deep kneading and stroking with varying amounts of intense pressure.