When we’re not obviously in pain, we’re often unaware of the small ways we’re injuring ourselves over time. From looking at screens to physical labor, our body goes through strain throughout the day. These small “injuries” can lead to scar tissue adhesions accumulating in your muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. When this problem goes unaddressed, the result is pain, discomfort, and lack of mobility.
Deep tissue manipulation, or deep tissue massage, invigorates and manipulates the deep layers of tissue within the body, including the fascia and other supportive tissue that make up the muscles and joints. Compared to other massage techniques — such as the Swedish massage or acupressure, which tend to be lighter in pressure and can involve moving the body into certain positions — deep tissue massage is slower and firmer. Deep tissue massage is meant for therapy and rehabilitation as opposed to relaxation.
Due to the intense nature of this massage, some pain may be experienced. However, as long as the pain isn’t unbearable, remember that this is a sign that your injury is being taken care of at the core. The pain can also be from the massage movements against the muscles rather than moving with them. The benefits of deep tissue massages include dramatic improvement in your posture, flexibility, range of motion, and energy level, while at the same time providing relief from tension, aches, pains, and stiffness.
The Deep Tissue Manipulation course at Healing Hands School of Holistic Health teaches the Deep Tissue techniques of Muscle Sculpting and Structural Organization as pioneered by Ida Rolf. Students learn how to manipulate “fascia” (the collagen web-like network that permeates the entire body) to create more balance (as it relates to gravity) and ease of movement in the body. This work requires client participation, with special emphasis given to the mind-body connection. Students are taught effective communication skills to facilitate the emotional awareness associated with this kind of deep bodywork.
Healing Hands School of Holistic Health has been helping men and women satisfy their passion for learning and building a successful career in massage therapy for more than 25 years. We have programs, including financial aid, available for qualified students. If you are interested in a career in massage therapy, you can make an appointment and learn more about our massage therapy or holistic health program. Visit https://hhs.edu/ or call us at (800) 355.6463
