Massage Therapy vs. Massage - Is there a difference?

Did you know that massage and massage therapy are two different types of practice? I think most of us use these terms somewhat interchangeably but they can be, in fact, quite different.

Massage is primarily focused on physical and mental relaxation, stress reduction, and general comfort. It is the type of bodywork typically found at a spa, resort, or wellness center. Massage is centered on creating a relaxing experience in a soothing environment - think ambient music, essential oils, and low lighting. This type of practice typically uses standard massage techniques such as Swedish or effleurage (long, gliding strokes) in order to engender overall relaxation.

Massage is often offered at a spa or wellness center.

Massage Therapy is a targeted, licensed, and sometimes clinical treatment designed to treat injuries, chronic pain, boost the immune system, and improve function. This type of bodywork focuses on long-term health improvement such as relief of chronic back pain, addressing plantar fasciitis, increasing range of motion, decreasing anxiety, and improving post surgery outcomes. Specialized techniques are used including deep tissue, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy, often with a plan for regular sessions to address and resolve long-term issues. Massage Therapists often receive a higher level of education and training in massage techniques and modalities, in addition to anatomy, physiology, and pathology.

Massage Therapy focuses on specific concerns or issues in addition to providing relaxation.

All this being said, many Massage Therapists, including myself, believe in combining these two modalities. Namely, creating a soothing, relaxing environment for the massage treatment within which to address any chronic or urgent issues. Each time you enter my studio, I want to give you the experience you need and want that day. If your desire is to sink deeply into a quiet, soothing, and relaxing experience and fully relax both body and mind, I can lean more towards a “massage.” If you want to deeply relax your mind and body, but also address your low back pain, or chronic neck and shoulder tension, I can meld the two and give you relief from pain while also providing deep relaxation. Or if you simply want focused work on chronic issues I can create a session that addresses those exclusively. Whatever you need, we will work together to make your session the best fit for your needs and desires that day.