Massage Therapy: Understanding the Different Modalities

Why it matters which type you book

Massage is one of the most booked wellness services — and one of the most misunderstood. The word covers an enormous range of techniques with different intentions, contraindications, and results. Booking the wrong type can leave you frustrated, or in rare cases, worse than before.

This overview covers the modalities you're most likely to encounter.

Swedish massage

The default in most spas and wellness centres, Swedish massage uses long gliding strokes, kneading, and gentle friction to relax muscle tension and improve circulation. It's the right choice for general relaxation, stress relief, and first-time massage clients.

Expect: medium pressure, full-body coverage, a relaxed state afterwards.

Deep tissue massage

Uses slower strokes and firmer pressure to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It's used to address chronic tension, postural issues, and recovery from physical activity.

Important: deep tissue massage should not hurt during the session. Discomfort is normal; pain is a sign the therapist is exceeding your tissue tolerance. You have every right to ask for less pressure.

Expect: some tenderness for 24–48 hours post-session; significant release from chronic holding patterns.

Thai massage

Performed on a mat, fully clothed. The therapist uses their hands, elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure to energy lines (sen lines), combined with passive yoga-like stretching. It is more active and movement-based than table massage.

Expect: to feel stretched and energised rather than simply relaxed. Useful for flexibility, joint mobility, and those who don't like the passivity of table massage.

Myofascial release

Focuses on the fascia — the connective tissue that wraps muscles and organs throughout the body. Uses sustained, gentle pressure held for longer periods than most massage styles. Often used for chronic pain, postural dysfunction, and post-surgical recovery.

Expect: a subtle technique that can produce significant results over multiple sessions.

Lymphatic drainage

A very light, rhythmic technique designed to support the lymphatic system. Used in post-surgical recovery, immune support, and oedema management.

Expect: extremely light touch — almost uncomfortably so if you're used to deep tissue. Not a relaxation massage; a therapeutic one.

How to choose

Tell the therapist what you're hoping for — not what technique you want, but what outcome. A good therapist will guide you to the right modality.