Understanding the Foundations, Key Massage Techniques Explained - Techniques & Modalities Series

What’s the Difference? Swedish, Deep Tissue, Aromatherapy & More Explained

When it comes to massage therapy, not all treatments are created equal. From relaxation to injury rehabilitation, the type of massage technique used can make a huge difference to your outcomes. At BSPOKR, we often hear clients ask: "What’s the difference between Swedish massage, deep tissue, aromatherapy, and remedial massage?"

This blog will help you understand the key techniques we use and how to choose what’s right for your body.

Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, looking to reduce stress, or simply want to enhance your wellbeing, understanding the differences in massage styles is key to getting the best results.

Swedish Massage: For Relaxation & Stress Relief

Swedish massage is one of the most well-known and widely practiced forms of massage therapy. This technique focuses on long, flowing strokes, kneading, and gentle stretching to promote relaxation, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tension.

Benefits:

Reduces overall stress
Enhances blood flow
mproves sleep quality
Supports nervous system regulation

Ideal if you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or simply need to unwind both physically and mentally.

Deep Tissue Massage: For Muscle Tension & Pain

Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. It’s more focused and deliberate than Swedish, aiming to release chronic muscle tension, adhesions, and postural imbalances.

This is not about “painful massage” — it’s about working smart, not hard, with controlled pressure and precision techniques.  You may of heard me say deep pressure doesn't have to be painful, I don't want you to be in pain as I believe it takes away from the muscle healing.  It's okay to feel the pressure and a slight bit of pain, that is to be expected but I won't be prolonging your pain.  We often ask on scale 1-10, and we would like it to be around the 3-4 not the 9-10 mark.

Benefits:

Reduces chronic pain
Breaks down scar tissue and adhesions
Improves posture
Restores range of movement

Perfect for people with desk-bound postures, athletes, or those managing persistent muscular discomfort.

Aromatherapy Massage: For Mind-Body Connection

Aromatherapy massage blends the benefits of Swedish-style techniques with the therapeutic properties of essential oils. This style of treatment enhances relaxation, mood balance, and emotional wellbeing through scent and touch.

The oils used are selected specifically for your needs, whether it’s calming anxiety, uplifting mood, or aiding sleep.

This isn't a technique I use a lot of in my treatments as it's not really my area of knowledge.  But in saying that I do use some peppermint / eucalyptus for breathing in if you have a cold, I love this and the warming effects with oil on upper body has a nice lasting effect.

Benefits:

Promotes deep relaxation
Eases anxiety and emotional stress
Enhances the immune system
Supports better sleep and mental clarity

An excellent choice if you’re seeking emotional reset as well as physical relaxation.

Remedial Massage: For Recovery, Rehabilitation & Function

Remedial massage is more clinical in nature, often incorporating assessment, targeted techniques, and treatment planning to address specific musculoskeletal issues. At BSPOKR, remedial massage is at the heart of what we do.

We use a combination of techniques such as trigger point therapy, myofascial release, stretching, and deep tissue work to support healing and improve function.

Benefits:

Speeds up recovery from injury
Reduces pain and inflammation
Corrects muscular imbalances
Prevents future injuries

This is ideal for conditions like SIJ dysfunction, disc injuries, frozen shoulder, wry neck, and sports-related muscle strains — which we’ll dive into more in upcoming posts.

How to Choose the Right Massage for You

Choosing the right technique depends on your goals, current condition, and how you want to feel after your treatment.

• If you want pure relaxation: Swedish or aromatherapy.

• If you need to unwind tight muscles: Deep tissue.

• If you have a specific injury or dysfunction: Remedial.

At BSPOKR, we tailor every treatment to your body, blending techniques as needed for the best outcomes.

Ready to book your personalised massage?

Experience the difference of treatments that are designed for you — your body, your lifestyle, your goals.

Get in touch to discuss what treatment might be best for you.