Swedish massage is the modality that comes to mind when most people think about relaxation massage. The primary goal of a Swedish relaxation massage is to relax the entire body while increasing circulation. This is accomplished by using long gliding strokes guiding  blood flow to return to the heart. Swedish massage therapy is beneficial for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, therefore decreasing muscle toxin build-up and encouraging flexibility while easing tension.

A trigger point is a tight area within muscle tissue that causes pain in other parts of the body. A trigger point in the back, for example, may produce referral pain in the neck. The neck, now acting as an additional point of stress, may then cause pain in the head. The pain may be sharp and intense or a dull ache. Trigger point massage therapy is specifically designed to alleviate the source of the pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release. In this type of massage for trigger point therapy, the recipient actively participates through deep breathing as well as identifying the exact location and intensity of the discomfort. Receiving massage with trigger point therapy on a regular basis can help naturally manage pain and stress from chronic injuries.

Deep tissue massage involves manipulation of the deep layers of tissue in the body, including the fascia and other supportive tissue that make up the muscles and joints. Compared to other popular massage techniques, such as Swedish massage or acupressure, (which tend to be lighter in pressure) deep tissue massage is usually slower and firmer. Deep tissue is particularly effective on areas of tension, immobility, scar tissue build-up, etc.

Acupressure is an ancient healing technique related to acupuncture, where the energies of the body are regulated by manipulating points on the body in relation to the energy channels. Each point has effects on the emotions, tension and physical conditions. The points are referred to as “acupuncture points,” “pressure points,” “acupoints” or “acupressure points.” A gentle to firm pressure is applied to each of these points using the hands/ thumbs for precision and sensitivity. Acupressure points differ from trigger points, in the sense that they tend to be in designated spots along each channel and are associated with particular organs, body functions, emotional states, etc.