The body is incredibly complex and harmoniously balanced. It’s quite remarkable when you get down to the cellular level how deep the body and its systems go. When it comes to the muskulo-skeletal system, the layers are just as delicate and refined, and not just something to dig an elbow as deep as possible into.
So, what is
deep tissue massage? Deep tissue is a massage modality that focuses on releasing knots and tension (and beyond) in deeper layers of muscle within the body, beneath the superficial muscles. Knowledge of the muscle directions, layers, and tendon attachments is required to properly access the deeper problem areas.
When deep tissue is required it’s a therapists patience, not physical force, that allows for access into these layers; whether it’s all the warming and softening of the superficial layers, or the slow easing through those layers en route to the deeper muscle tissue below; the key is not force, but focus.
A therapist must know how to sink into and through muscle layers to reach the deeper muscles and fascia and properly manipulate the problem area. This is most easily done with ‘sharper tools,’ i.e. knuckles, forearms, and elbows (oh my).
All in all, “Deep Tissue” is really just a therapists best-marketing-friend because EVERYONE wants deep tissue massage. But know that a therapist who promotes “no pain, no gain” deep tissue massage may leave you in a worse state than when you arrived for your session. The goal is not to cause more muscle contraction; it’s to release chronic and acute tension, and re-educate the muscle fibers. C’mon now!
Hope this gives you a better idea of deep tissue massage. Find out more about the art and science of massage therapy at my website, www.brainbodymassage.com, and let’s book your next session soon.
