Did you know frequent massages can lower the body’s blood pressure and stress levels?
Even if you aren’t able to schedule frequent trips to the spa, an occasional massage does the trick. You’ll feel your body melting into the massage table as your worries drift away.
If you look at a spa’s website, you’ll notice a list of different services. It’s a tad confusing reading over what each type of service includes. You may not know what’s best!
We’ll help you choose between two popular types of massages. Keep reading below for a hot stone massage vs deep tissue guide.
Table of Contents
What’s a Hot Stone Massage?
For those who tend to hold everyday stress in their bodies, you most likely experience tight muscles and difficulty sleeping. This type of massage is great for you!
Hot, flat stones, usually with basalt, are placed down the back. Basalt has a high iron content, and this iron content allows the stones to hold heat much longer than other stones.
Your body will gradually relax as the warm stones melt into your body. The stones also increase blood flow and rid muscle stiffness. It’s a great option for those who want only moderate pressure applied to the body.
What’s a Deep Tissue Massage?
Are you looking for a more intense level of pressure applied to the muscles? This might be the massage for you.
Typically with long strokes of the hand, you’ll feel an intense pressure applied to your muscles. It’s meant to work out knots of tense muscles, providing a great sense of relief.
You’ll feel the effects of this type of massage in the deeper layers of your muscles and connective tissues. If you have difficult knots, it could take several sessions to feel a major difference.
Who Should Get These Types of Massages?
There’s no set guidebook of who’s allowed to get massages, and there aren’t any rules about what massage you must get. With that said, these two different types can address different issues within the body.
Hot stone massages are ideal for someone with more surface-level tension or those who may have arthritis and feel uncomfortable with intense pressure. It’s also a great option for those looking for a quick hour-long escape in the day.
Individuals with chronic muscles tightness and pain benefit from deep tissue massages. Keep in mind you will have sore spots that cause pain as the masseuse works out the knots.
Find a massage therapist who makes you feel comfortable and works with you to address the problems you’re facing.
Overall Benefits of Massage
Whether it’s a hot stone or deep tissue massage, there are benefits that come along with any session.
The number one reason most people get a massage is to lower their stress levels. Stress not only spikes anxiety but also contributes to weight gain, muscle tension, depression, and insomnia.
All types of massage help blood flow within the body and provide some level of relief to muscle tension. Your body will feel like a spaghetti noodle after an effective massage.
How to Find a Massage Therapist or Spa Near You
Finding the best massage near you is a few internet searches away. Hop onto your computer or smartphone and search phrases such as, ‘best massage near me’ or ‘massage therapist near me’.
As you sift through your search results, take time to read the reviews of each therapist and spa. No spot is perfect, but you don’t want to end up wasting precious money.
Has a friend recently mentioned an amazing massage they received near you? Reach out to ask where they went. The spa may even have a referral program.
If you’re on a budget, check out discounts on sites like Groupon. Some spas allow you to save money over an extended period of time by offering a membership. You can even check out a local massage therapy school for discounted massages from students!
Find the right therapist or spa for you is important. There are plenty of choices available, such as The Busy Body Massage Clinic.
Other Types of Massages
Are these two types of massages not tickling your fancy? There are plenty of other options to explore.
Not every massage therapist or spa is trained to offer each type, so it may take some digging to find what’s best for you.
Reflexology Massage
If you’re not comfortable with someone touching your body, a reflexology massage is typically performed on the hands or feet. It provides a balance to the body’s energy levels and offers quick relaxation.
This type of massage is much quicker. Sessions usually last around 30 minutes. It’s great for a lunch break!
Thai Massage
Does yoga and pilates appeal to you? Thai massages are great for people who are comfortable with being stretched and bent in all different ways.
This type of massage improves flexibility and blood circulation. Because it’s not an experience most people have taken part in, chat with the masseuse. Ask any questions you have to get comfortable.
Prenatal Massage
Pregnant women rejoice in knowing there’s a specific type of massage safe for the baby. It reduces pregnancy aches and muscle tension.
This type of massage involves moderate pressure with extra attention to the lower back and hips. Talk with your massage therapist before scheduling a session because many therapists don’t offer massages to women early in their pregnancy due to safety.
A Quick Guide on Hot Stone Massage vs Deep Tissue
Service lists on a spa’s site can be overwhelming. On any given list, you’ll usually notice a hot stone or deep tissue massage. To better decide between the two, make sure you read the above guide on hot stone massage vs deep tissue.
A hot stone massage involves heated stones and moderate pressure. A deep tissue massage is given with long hand strokes and intense pressure. Both types provide relaxation and muscle relief.
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