Swedish is a relaxing, stress reducing massage. After an hour of Swedish Massage you will feel relaxed and rejuvenated. That's why it's the most popular massage. Swedish Massage uses long soothing strokes to reduce muscle tension, release oxytocin in the brain (the feel good chemical) and often induces sleep. It softens and relaxes tired sore muscles. It also warms up the muscles allowing for Deep Tissue Massage which has longer lasting effects. A combination of Swedish and Deep Tissue provides the maximum benefit from each session.
Deep Tissue Massage is often combined with Swedish to help relax and relieve muscle tension. Deep Tissue Massage uses firm pressure to dissolve knots that have developed in muscle tissue over time. Deep Tissue Massage often takes repeat sessions to obtain maximum results. This is because knots that have taken months/years to develop need to be trained to relax again. Deep Tissue Massage can be an emotional experience since muscle knots are associated with memory. You've heard the phrase, "He's carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders." Imagine the emotional release you experience when that weight is finally lifted.
Neuromuscular Massage restores muscle function and promotes healing. Neuromuscular Massage synchronizes the nerves and muscles so you feel less stiff and more flexible. Neuromuscular Massage is often used in rehabilitation from injuries as well as treating more chronic conditions such carpal tunnel syndrome and neck and shoulder pain patterns associated with car accidents, headaches and overuse of computers.
Trigger Point Massage is beneficial to reducing pain. Trigger Point Massage uses techniques to locate and diffuse sources of muscle pain. It's a matter of looking for and finding the tightest, most spastic section of muscle. Pressure, cross fiber friction, stretching and heat are used to release the muscle. Trigger Point methods are incorporated in deep tissue and sports massage. If you have a major trigger point that's always tight and painful, like a knot at the junction of the neck and shoulder blade several methods may be used to help diffuse it.