We usually do not specify our services as “Deep Tissue” or “Swedish Massage” because we feel that those labels are somewhat limiting. For example, almost all massages will have some element of Swedish Massage to them– if even as a warm up or palpation/assessment technique.

Deep Tissue is very subjective. Sometimes patients think they want really deep work but once in the session may learn that really what they are seeking is specificity and with some gentle education, patients learn that wincing and grimacing through your massage is oftentimes counterproductive, as it can cause the nervous system to go into a sympathetic state (fight, flight or freeze) and what we really want is to be just below that threshold where the work feels like it’s working and doing something helpful but doesn’t light up the nervous system.

Other times, we may work rather deep, per the patient’s request and then quickly learn that they don’t really want much pressure at all.

Most all bodywork is received best when the nervous system is in a parasympathetic state (rest and repose, or rest and relax). This is when the body is not contracting and “fighting back”. We really have every intention of working with the body, not against the body. You are always in control and we will start with where you are at – mentally, physically and emotionally.

We like to work with specificity and intention, it can feel very comfortable and still super effective at yielding the desired results. Communication during the session is extremely important to maintain your comfort, safety and desired results.

We are always happy to apply more pressure if it’s safe, appropriate and keeps the body out of the sympathetic state. (For example, it may not be appropriate to apply deep pressure to a lump or bump that has not yet been diagnosed. It may not be safe to apply deep pressure to a healing incision or a swollen lymph node. If we apply pressure to an area and your whole body tenses up, then this is a clear indicator that the pressure is too deep and we need to decrease the depth and/or pressure). You can trust us to pay attention to the cues your body gives us and to listen to your feedback and adjust accordingly.