With so many types of massage on offer these days, choosing which to go for is a tricky gig (like deciding what you fancy on Deliveroo, with fewer arguments). Deep tissue is the most popular choice on Treatwell – our most-booked massage in 2018, in fact – while Swedish, Thai, and chair massage offer various solutions to muscular pain and feeling ‘zen’. You could try them all out for size, or just read this. Your call. *Books four massages instantly*.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Swedish massage
Best for: all-out relaxation
This massage combines long smooth strokes with muscle ‘kneading’ in circular motions to soothe knots and ease tension. Lotion is usually involved (so you’ll smell great too), or aromatherapy oils. Swedish massage is all about relaxation (trying not to nod off is the only ‘tension’ you’ll be feeling throughout), while the adjustment of pressure will really get to work on any muscle concerns. A dribble patch on the massage table is likely.
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2 Deep tissue massage
Best for: releasing chronic muscle tension
The clue is in the name: this massage targets the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue, really getting to work on restoring your body to prime condition. If you’re a sporty sort (tell me what that’s like?), you’ll feel the benefit of regular massage to shift the strain of physical activity – the harder pressure allows for blood to flow more freely to damaged tissue, so you can be back on the yoga mat in no time. Ommm.
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3 Thai massage
Best for: stress-reducing
Thai massage combines acupressure and yoga postures, with the weight of the therapist’s body to apply real rhythmic pressure to muscle tissue. There’s a few fancy moves involved – you may even be walked on (don’t worry, only if you request it) – owing to the fusion of techniques from India, China and Southeast Asia. There are no oils involved, and you’ll most likely keep your clothes on while the therapists works on stretching, shaping and soothing your body. That’s my kind of workout.
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4 Chair massage
Best for: quick relief (of back and neck pain)
For a chair massage, you’ll be seated (groundbreaking), as your therapist gets to work on the back, neck and shoulders. The massage usually lasts around 10-15 minutes, so it’s a good one for your lunch break, or to bring into the office (start hinting to the boss riiiiiiight now). You’ll feel thoroughly recharged post-rubdown. Benefits of a chair massage go beyond fifteen minutes away from your desk, it can help to reduce muscle tension, headaches and lower anxiety.