Massage is magic. It provides tremendous benefit to the body, mind, and soul. If you get regular massages you probably don’t need convincing, but if you’re new to the service, you might have lingering questions. There are many types of massage and one of the most popular and therapeutic is called a deep tissue massage. If that’s the one you’re signing up for, here’s what you can expect.
When you first arrive for your deep tissue massage
Just like with any other type of massage, the therapist will start your session by having a conversation. They’ll want to know your chief complaints and goals for the massage. Armed with that knowledge, they’ll be able to deliver the perfect deep tissue massage.
Light pressure comes first
Once you’ve finished your chat, disrobed, and gotten into position, the therapist will start working your muscles. They will apply oil and start lightly rubbing the muscles that will be worked much more thoroughly in due course. They will apply light pressure to these areas and you’ll start to feel the tension melt away.
Stripping during your deep tissue massage
Once the therapist has prepared your muscles, they’ll start stripping them. They will apply a gliding-type of pressure along the muscle fibers and will use their hands, elbows, formarms, and thumbs. The pressure will increase a bit from the light pressure you experienced in the first several minutes of the massage.
Friction applied
Once the muscles are softened and ready, the therapist will apply significant friction across your muscle fibers with force. This could cause a bit of discomfort as they work to get deep into the muscle and break up any areas where tissue has become hard and rigid. If the pressure is unbearable you should tell your therapist. If it’s bearable, know that working through adhesions deep in the muscles will benefit you in the long term.