How a Swedish massage feels
Swedish massage uses long, gliding strokes, gentle kneading and circles over the whole body. The pressure is light to medium and the pace is steady, so your body has time to let go.
You leave relaxed rather than worked on. It's the classic choice for everyday stress, tired legs after a long week, or simply an hour away from your phone.
How a deep tissue massage feels
Deep tissue massage is slower and firmer. Your therapist uses forearms, knuckles and held pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle, usually in the back, neck, shoulders and legs.
It should feel strong, not sharp. Some tenderness over a knot is normal; pain is not, and you can ask for lighter pressure at any point. Mild soreness for a day or two afterwards is common, a bit like after a good workout.
Which one suits you
- First massage, or you mainly want to relax: Swedish.
- Desk-back, stiff shoulders or knots that keep coming back: deep tissue.
- Gym, running or sports soreness: deep tissue.
- You find Swedish too light but deep tissue sounds like a lot: Balinese, at medium pressure with palm pressure and gentle stretches.
- You can't decide: book Swedish and ask for firmer pressure on the back and shoulders.
How long to book
Every length is a full-body massage; 60 minutes is an easy pace. For deep tissue, 90 minutes gives your therapist time to work slowly on the areas that need it without rushing the rest. If one area is the problem, say so at check-in and your therapist will spend more of the time there.