10/15/2025
It is SO important to know the different styles of massage before booking an appointment, and especially before getting on the table! I would like to take the time to go over what we offer at Gadsden Massage Studio so that no clients or future clients are uncertain of what best suits their specific needs.
Let's start with Deep Tissue massage. Contrary to popular belief, Deep Tissue is not just about deep pressure, though that can definitely be part of it. Deep Tissue is more about finding those trigger point problems and releasing them. Your therapist will ask you to breathe through certain holds. It is not meant to be relaxing, like a Swedish massage. It is meant to fast track the healing of muscles that may have been damaged or overworked over time.
Swedish Massage has a history of being confusing when it comes to who is responsible for the term, but what is important for YOU to know is how it works and its usage. Swedish Massage utilizes long, flowing strokes (effleurage) as well as rhythmic kneading (petrissage). Swedish Massage will slow your heart rate and give you a sense of relaxation and peace. It can be as much for the mind as it can for the body. Many people can mistake Swedish as being incredibly light handed, but that is not true. Light, medium or firm pressure can be used in a Swedish Massage.
Thai Massage is traditionally done fully clothed (in loose, stretchy clothes) on a mat on the floor. This is also a form of partner yoga. Your therapist will bring you into and out of different yoga poses, as well as perform compressions along the muscles and tendons as they go. If you have a yoga practice that you enjoy, you would love this treatment. It will help you go the extra mile in your practice. If you are someone who would like to establish a better range of motion, this is for you too. You therapist will meet you wherever you are and help you fulfill your yoga goals!
Lomi Massage (my favorite practice, my HEART) has been used for hundreds of years by the native people of the Hawaiian Islands. Though some of the history of this beautiful practice remains hidden or lost, the spirit of Lomi lives on through the hands and hearts of those who give it. Traditionally this massage is given four handed with two massage therapists moving together over the receiver. It is rhythmic like Swedish but faster paced, depending on the music.
Combination/ Therapeutic/ Wellness Massage are all commonly used terms for a massage that is a mix of modalities tailored to fit someone who may need a little of everything. This is a massage therapist's own stylized treatment that they create for YOU.
No matter what type of massage calls to you, we at Gadsden Massage Studio are here to help you reach your goals. I have a decade long love for massage therapy that only grows with each year that passes. If you ever have any questions do not hesitate to call at (256) 553-1469.
-Katie Campbell, LMT & Owner
