Skip to main content


Leslie Guerrero Collins, L.M.T.

Absolutely Relaxed Massage Therapy

Home
Bodywork
Spa
Pregnancy Massage
LCRA Chair Massage
Aromatherapy
A la Carte
Book And Buy Online
Massage Packages
Contact Me
Bio
About
Trunk Fitness
Bodywork 

      Welcome.  This page is designed to explain the two of the most commonly requested kinds of massage- Swedish and deep tissue.  Below you will see a side by side comparison of each modality and you can decide which treatment best suits your needs.  And of course, we can always combine the two.  Both massages include hot packs and aromatherapy.
 
I also offer a number of specialized treatments including hot stone massage, foot Reflexology, body wraps & scrubs, and Ayurvedic treatments
See them here.
Swedish Massage

Pressure: The pressure used in a Swedish massage can be as light as a feather or heavy enough to require some use of my elbow. 

Strokes:  Swedish strokes have a wide range from long and soothing to percussive and energizing, typically encompassing  whole muscle groups in a single stroke.


Generally,
this massage includes a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles by applying pressure to them against deeper muscles and bones, and rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart.  The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles.  Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable and also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested in a regular program for stress management.  

Each Swedish massage session includes a hot pack setting for the muscle group you feel needs the most help and your choice of aromatic oils for your session - European Lavender, Oriental Style or Coconut Vanilla.  (Custom blend are available - see Aromatherapy)   This massage can be very slow and relaxing or fast and invigorating but either way, contact is sure and purposeful.

$60.00 for 1 hour
$80.00 for 90 minutes
$100.00 for 2 hours
Buy Online



 Deep Tissue Massage

Pressure: The pressure used in a deep tissue massage is direct, can be intense and increases with each repetition.

Strokes:  Deep tissue strokes include the use of direct thumb, finger, forearm or elbow pressure to just one small area at a time in a single direction. 


Generally,this massage focuses on deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia, also called connective tissue. Deep tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but the pressure will be more intense as I work to release chronic muscle tension or knots. When muscles are stressed, they block oxygen and nutrients, leading to inflammation that builds up toxins in the muscle tissue. A deep-tissue massage helps loosen muscle tissues, release toxins from muscles and get blood and oxygen circulating properly.  The purpose is to "un-stick" the fibers of a muscle while releasing deeply held patterns of tension, removing toxins, while relaxing and soothing the muscle. It is both corrective and therapeutic.  It shouldn't hurt, but it's likely to be a bit more uncomfortable than a classic Swedish massage. You should always feel free, (in fact, responsible) to speak up if the pressure is too much for you.

Again, each deep tissue massage includes a hot pack setting, but this massage is performed without oil.  During this focused massage, you and I will be actively communicating about what is taking place and how it is making you feel.



$60.00 for 1 hour
$80.00 for 90 minutes
$100.00 for 2 hours
Buy Online