Some spas offer Swedish and Shiatsu massage techniques to clients to help them relax and promote overall health. These forms of Asian massage both aim to relieve stress and tension, but they involve different methods. Here are some of the differences between Shiatsu and Swedish massage:
Purpose
During a Swedish massage, a masseuse works on your muscles, breaking down knots and loosening tight areas. The strokes used in this type of Asian massage allow blood to flow to your skin and muscles, helping you recover from physical activity and muscle strains. The soothing hand movements used during Swedish bodywork help your mind and body relax.
Shiatsu massage focuses on balancing the body’s energy flow by working on specific acupressure points along the body’s energy pathways. This therapy offers a more holistic treatment for clients who want to address specific ailments like headaches, joint pain, and digestive issues. Shiatsu massage may trigger the body’s natural healing process to improve energy levels and mood.
Methods
A massage therapist uses their palms or fingers to perform long, flowing movements that warm up your muscles during a Swedish massage. These professionals also use kneading techniques, which involve squeezing, rolling, and moving the muscles to release knots. With the edges of their hands or fingers, a masseuse uses rhythmic tapping to energize muscles. This stimulates blood flow and creates a soothing sensation.
In Shiatsu massage, a therapist stretches and manipulates your body to release tension and help you become more flexible. Stretching is one way to open up energy channels and alleviate stress and bad moods. To relieve discomfort in various areas, a Shiatsu massage professional may use circular or rotational movements on acupressure points.
Pressure
During a Swedish massage session, a therapist applies light to moderate pressure, which eases tightness in muscle surfaces. This level of pressure assists in increasing blood circulation and creates a relaxing experience. If you are seeking deeper relief, this type of massage can include deep kneading targeting inner muscle tissue. A therapist adjusts pressure levels to address tension while providing a relaxing treatment for each client.
Shiatsu involves applying firm and steady pressure to acupressure points and along meridians to promote overall health and wellness. The intensity of Shiatsu pressure can feel deeper than Swedish massage due to its focus on specific points and energy channels. To apply steady pressure to specific points, a massage therapist uses their thumb, while palm pressure covers broader areas.
Oil Usage
In Swedish massage, oils or lotions are used to reduce friction between the therapist’s hands and the client’s skin. A masseuse uses essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, that have aromatic and therapeutic properties. Such oils allow a therapist to perform kneading and massage strokes without resistance. If you are sensitive to some oils or prefer one over another, inform your therapist before your massage to customize your experience.
During Shiatsu massages, therapists don’t use oils because the therapy focuses on applying pressure to certain points on the body. Without oil, you’ll feel the pressure more directly, allowing you to maximize the benefits of this massage. The absence of lotions or oils also helps the therapist gain a better grip on a client’s body to perform stretching and manipulation techniques.
Book an Appointment for an Asian Massage
Swedish and Asian massages can be combined to offer greater therapeutic benefits and pain relief. Regular massages can boost relaxation and comfort, resulting in improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being. To improve your overall health, book an appointment for an Asian massage today. Some spas accept walk-in clients if you want to get a massage as soon as possible.
