Revealed! The Difference between Swedish, Balinese & Thai Massages

nearbuy (by Groupon)
nearbuy blog
Published in
3 min readOct 13, 2016

“You can’t buy happiness but you can buy a massage and that’s kind of the same thing.” But happiness comes in different forms.

We’ve sorted out which massage to pick, so you don’t have to.

Swedish Massage: For the first-timers

If your muscles are craving relaxation, then this is your go-to massage. Long, smooth, sweeping strokes help cramped or tense muscles and improve blood flow to the skin. If it’s your first time getting a massage, this is the massage to pick.

[caption id=”attachment_1399" align=”alignnone” width=”940"]

Image Courtesy: http://timeforself.net/swedish-massage/

Image Courtesy: http://timeforself.net/swedish-massage/[/caption]

Deep Tissue Massage: For athletes

Want to go beyond just relaxation? Then you need to try the Deep Tissue Massage, which firmly puts pressure on the muscles while relieving pain and healing injuries. You might be sore for a day or 2 after the massage. Perfect for recovery from injury and athletes prone to sports injuries and tissue diseases.

[caption id=”attachment_1400" align=”alignnone” width=”753"]

Image Courtesy: https://gouldsalonspa.com

Image Courtesy: https://gouldsalonspa.com[/caption]

Shiatsu Massage: For aches & pains

Shiatsu means finger pressure in Japanese. It involves application of pressure to your body using fingers, thumbs and palms and in turn, freeing blockages that prevent energy from reaching affected areas. Best for those suffering from fatigue, stress, headaches and arthritis.

[caption id=”attachment_1402" align=”alignnone” width=”822"]

Image courtesy: https://www.stonebridge.uk.com/course/shiatsu

Image courtesy: https://www.stonebridge.uk.com/course/shiatsu[/caption]

Thai Massage: For increased flexibility

The therapist uses every part of his or her body — hands, knees, legs, and feet — to not only stretch you but also apply pressure on your muscles and loosen your joints. Perfect for improving energy, increased flexibility, overall health and well-being.

[caption id=”attachment_1403" align=”alignnone” width=”850"]

Image courtesy: www.mcthaimassage.com

Image courtesy: www.mcthaimassage.com[/caption]

Balinese Massage: For strained muscles

Unlike Swedish, in Balinese, techniques are performed very slow and very deep (to clear energy blockages) with essential oil. Also the Balinese will always massage the stomach as this is beneficial for colon health and the reproductive system. Ideal for those with damaged tissue or strained muscles or joints, and for anyone experiencing some emotional loss or trauma.

[caption id=”attachment_1405" align=”alignnone” width=”800"]

Image Courtesy: www.mokshamspa.com

Image Courtesy: www.mokshamspa.com[/caption]

So, which massage are you pampering yourself with this weekend?

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