Types of Massage: Swedish, Deep Tissue, Hot Stone and More
A quick guide to the most common massage styles clients see on spa menus.
Spa menus are often full of names that sound beautiful but confusing. Swedish massage is usually the classic option: a full body treatment with oil, long gliding strokes and gentle kneading. It aims mainly at relaxation, improving circulation and loosening general tension, making it ideal for people who are new to massage.
Deep tissue massage uses slower and more focused pressure on specific layers of muscle. It is suitable for clients with chronic tightness, sports-related stiffness or postural problems, as long as they are comfortable with firm touch and communicate honestly about their limits. Hot stone massage uses warmed stones together with the hands to spread heat through the muscles and create a deep sense of comfort.
Other styles include sports massage for active clients, aromatherapy massage that adds essential oils to support mood and breathing, as well as Thai or stretching-based treatments that work more on joint mobility. A good therapist helps each person choose the technique that matches their goals, pain level and preference for pressure.
Deep tissue massage uses slower and more focused pressure on specific layers of muscle. It is suitable for clients with chronic tightness, sports-related stiffness or postural problems, as long as they are comfortable with firm touch and communicate honestly about their limits. Hot stone massage uses warmed stones together with the hands to spread heat through the muscles and create a deep sense of comfort.
Other styles include sports massage for active clients, aromatherapy massage that adds essential oils to support mood and breathing, as well as Thai or stretching-based treatments that work more on joint mobility. A good therapist helps each person choose the technique that matches their goals, pain level and preference for pressure.