Our team of licensed massage therapists is incredibly talented and well-rounded. We always recommend asking your therapist what they specialize in–you never know what interesting skills they bring to the table. When it comes to massage styles, it can be intimidating to know where to start. That’s why we’re starting with the basics. Read on for five common styles explained, debunked, and broken down.
Signature (Swedish)
Let’s start with the basics. Swedish massages are relaxation-based and focus on tension relief. Think flowy, longer stokes. This style will also be customized to your pressure preferences. The goal of Swedish massage is to set your body to homeostasis a.k.a. your body’s center, home base.
Deep Tissue
For more focused, therapeutic work, ask your therapist about Deep Tissue. You might benefit from this style if you have concentrated, specific issues you’d like to remedy. A common misconception about Deep Tissue is that the style must be very firm and intense. In fact, our therapists can use the therapeutic benefits of Deep Tissue without using hard or firm pressure.
Reiki
Have you ever woken up on the wrong side of the bed? Ever walk away from a situation just feeling kinda bleh? Do you ever feel an ominous weirdness you just can’t shake? That’s how you know it’s time to try Reiki. It’s a type of subtle therapy using light touch that can help with insomnia, anxiety, digestive issues, relaxation, and even PTSD. It activates your chakras (or energy centers) to help calibrate your energetic field. Science has shown we all have electromagnetic fields around us, and a Reiki therapist can help realign your said field.
At milk + honey, there is still massage incorporated – its partially Signature Massage and partially Reiki. You can even customize the ratio to your preference.
Note that only select therapists offer Reiki. Please call ahead or email [email protected] for more info.
Pre-Natal
At milk + honey, we only offer Pre-Natal Massage after your first trimester. We offer a unique bolstering system that can be adjusted to your baby bump to allow the prone position (lying on your stomach.) Of course, you can always lie on your side if that better suits your comfort level. We offer a cold pack during the massage and touching of the abdomen is optional.
Sports Massage
Ready to stretch? Sports Massages lengthen tissues and change fascia. They’re great for pre or post-workout, of course. If you’re active, training for a marathon or 5k, or working through a sports injury, this is your go-to. Don’t be fooled, though — this massage is really for anyone looking to increase flexibility. If you sit at a desk all day, this style would also be helpful for you.
Take it home:
Looking to relieve and relax your muscles, but can’t make it into the spa? Here are two at-home steps you can take. First, try our Muscle Soak, formulated with Eucalyptus, Arnica, Rosemary, Sweet Marjoram to soothe aches and pains. Next, follow up with a small amount of our powerful Arnica Balm to soothe targeted muscles and joints. Not as good as a massage, but a close second best.
Still unsure? That’s okay.
“milk + honey is unique because the consultation process allows us to identify what the you need. Book the time and know that your therapist is going to guide you.”
-LaLa, Licensed Massage Therapist, milk + honey 2nd Street District
No Comments