Swedish or deep tissue: which one do you need?

Swedish and deep tissue are our two most requested treatments, and people often assume deep tissue is just a stronger Swedish. It is not quite that simple. They are built for different goals. Here is how to tell which one your body actually wants right now.

Swedish, in plain terms

Swedish massage uses long, flowing strokes, gentle kneading and a steady, relaxing rhythm. The pressure is light to medium, and the whole point is to calm your nervous system, improve circulation and help you unwind. If you finish a session feeling like you could happily fall asleep, that is Swedish doing its job.

Choose Swedish when you want to de stress, sleep better, or simply enjoy an hour of pure relaxation. It is also the ideal starting point if you have never had a professional massage before, or if you find firm pressure uncomfortable.

Deep tissue, in plain terms

Deep tissue works slower and firmer, reaching the deeper layers of muscle and the stubborn knots that build up over time. The therapist uses focused pressure on specific areas rather than gliding over the whole body. It is more of a therapeutic treatment than a purely relaxing one, though many people still find it deeply satisfying.

Choose deep tissue when you have a recurring tight spot, stiffness from long hours sitting or driving, or tension that a lighter massage never quite shifts. It should feel like a firm, good kind of pressure, never sharp pain. Always tell your therapist if it is too much, because more pressure is not always better.

A quick way to decide

• You want to relax and switch off: Swedish.
• You have a specific ache or knot to work on: deep tissue.
• It is your first massage: start with Swedish.
• You sit or drive for long hours: deep tissue.
• You are recovering from a stressful week: Swedish.
• You want lasting relief from chronic tension: deep tissue.

Still not sure? Ask on the day

You do not have to get it perfect at booking. Our therapists adjust pressure to how you feel once the session starts, and you can always ask for a little firmer or a little softer. The best massage is the one that matches your body on the day, and we are happy to guide you.

If your goal is calm, go Swedish. If your goal is relief, go deep tissue. And if it is both, tell us, because we can blend the two.