What is better? A full body massage or, focusing on one specific area?
A commonly asked question during massage consultations. My answer? Depends on the desired outcome of the session.
If your primary goal is relaxation and mild areas of concern, my full body massage is what I recommend. The goal for this type of treatment is for you to unwind and release faint muscle tension. In this treatment I would use a Sweedish style of massage. It involves the use of kneading, stroking, friction, tapping, and vibration and may provide relief from stiffness, numbness, pain, and other health problems. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. It is different than specific work because by touching on each area equally there is little time to do specific work.
If you have an area of concern like your neck, back or shoulders for example, using a slow,specific Deep Tissue/Myo-Facial technique is necessary. The definition of deep tissue massage is specific massage manipulation of the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue manipulation therapy uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but the pressure is more intense. It is also a more focused type of massage. During this treatment I work to release chronic muscle tension or knots (also known as "adhesions.") Although it is more uncomfortable then Swedish massage, it shouldn’t hurt. The communication between a client and a deep tissue massage therapist is important. Giving feedback on pressure as well as patterned breathing is expected. It can also be relaxing as a secondary goal.
Both the full body massage and the specific work share the benefit of stress relief. If you have areas of concern or your not relaxed this can cause stress in the body and disrupt homeostasis, which is the bodies natural state of balance. High stress disrupts this balance, lowers the immune system and increases your risk to disease.
Want to benefit by being relaxed AND getting some work done? See an experienced Therapist and opt for a longer treatment time.
~KO
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