There are a lot of different massage therapies to choose from. In this article I am going to look at a Balinese massage vs Swedish massage to highlight the differences between both and help you decide which type of massage is best for you.
Whether you have physical, mental, spiritual, or emotional problems you want to resolve through massage therapy. There is a type of massage to give you a more relaxed, deep, and therapeutic experience that you cannot achieve any other way.
Let’s take a look at these two popular, but different types of massage in more detail.
Contents
Balinese Massage vs Swedish Massage
What Is a Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the most common form of massage therapy and a lot of other massage techniques have been developed from the Swedish massage. A Swedish massage is always the best type of massage for beginners. It offers a wide range of therapeutic and physical benefits without being too firm.
There are other forms of Swedish massage designed for certain types of pain or muscular issues. Such as deep-tissue massage or sports massages, but for an all round relaxing and rejuvenating experience a Swedish massage is what you want.
What to Expect from a Swedish Massage
During a swedish massage the therapist uses oil to lubricate the skin and aid their techniques. There are a wide range of strokes involved in a complete therapy. Usually starting with effleurage strokes, followed by petrissage and tapotement techniques.
The routine will be tailored to the client’s individual need as established from a pre-massage talk and what they are finding as they stroke across the body. The movements release tension and work out the knots and adhesions in the muscles and tissue.
Benefits of a Swedish Massage
There are a lot of benefits to having a Swedish massage which is why it’s the most popular form of massage. You will experience benefits with both your physical and emotional well-being.
The physical benefits include working our knots in the muscles. Decreasing aches and pains, increasing blood circulation, and stimulating lymph activity. As for mental benefits you will feel stress leaving your body. As well as feeling a deep state of relaxation you have probably never felt before.
If you are feeling run down, mentally drained, or stressed. A Swedish massage is an absolute must. You will leave the therapist’s table feeling so much better than when you arrived. The benefits don’t just stop at the door either, you will continue to enjoy the effects long after.
What Is a Balinese Massage
Balinese massage differs from a Swedish massage as it focuses less on the physical and more on the holistic and spiritual side. A Balinese massage comprises of a series of acupressure, stretching, aromatherapy and reflexology techniques.
There is also massage oil used. But instead of a typically massage oil a Balinese therapist will use an essential oil to help with certain physical or mental conditions. It’s a great massage for those looking to feel a lot calmer and more relaxed. You will also have physical concerns worked on like knots and tightness.
What to Expect from a Balinese Massage
The room will usually have essential oil diffused into the air to create a relaxing environment. Aromatherapy is an important part of this form of massage therapy. There is a lot of emphasis on using the right oils.
The massage techniques used include more deep-tissue work for a deeper level of relaxation. It can be more painful experience than a Swedish massage and not for first timers. You will get more from the massage if you are familiar with massaging and what you want to get from it.
The therapist will use more closed fist techniques and kneading movements. So it’s very effective at working out knots and tightness in the muscles.
Benefits of a Balinese Massage
The benefits of a Balinese massage connect with a person on a deeper level than just the physical, and even the mental. There is a long spiritual and emotional history to this form of massage, and it needs to be respected for its heritage.
The deep-tissue techniques used work deep into the muscles and tissues to resolve even the most stubborn knots and adhesions. Combined with the essential oils the client receives a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Anyone feeling run down, physically or mentally will gain a lot from a massage. It’s also recommended for anyone experiencing some emotional loss or trauma. If you allow yourself to get lost in the moment you can find a connection with your emotional side.
Why You Should Have Massages Regularly
Having a one-off massage as a treat or a way to recharge the batteries is always a great idea. But having massages regularly is much more beneficial. There are benefits that ‘stack’ and last alot longer when you have regular treatments.
Almost all of us don’t, and can’t treat our bodies in the way we should. Most jobs require sitting for long periods of time. This puts a person’s back under a great deal of pressure.
Standing for long periods is also damaging to the spine and can cause muscle aches. If you do a job that requires repetition then you are putting certain muscles and joints under stress.
All of these issues can be resolved, or at least helped a great deal with regular massages. So pick the type of massage carefully. Look at what it offers specifically, and use massage therapy to get yourself feeling better than ever.
Looking at a Balinese massage vs Swedish massage is just two types of massage. There are loads of other types that treat and work on other health concerns.
I’m a MA, (CMT) Certified Massage Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Reiki Master — I’m a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry.