Massage tips · W Spa Palo Alto
Deep Tissue vs Swedish Massage: which should you book?
They're our two most booked massages, and the right choice depends on one thing above all: whether you want to relax or to work out stubborn tight spots.
The short answer
Book Swedish if you mainly want to relax, unwind after a long week, or you're new to massage. Book deep tissue if you have specific areas that feel tight or knotted, like your neck, shoulders or lower back, and you like firmer pressure.
| Swedish massage | Deep tissue massage | |
|---|---|---|
| Feels like | Long, flowing strokes; light to medium pressure | Slower strokes and sustained, firm pressure |
| Main goal | Relaxation and an overall loosened feeling | Working into tight, knotted areas |
| Good for | Stress, first-timers, anyone who prefers gentle pressure | Desk-job neck and shoulders, lower back, hips, active people |
| Afterwards | Calm and sleepy | Looser; worked areas can feel a little tender for a day |
| At W Spa | 45 min $70 · 60 min $80 · 90 min $120 | 30 min $70 · 60 min $90 · 90 min $140 |
What Swedish massage is like
Swedish is the classic relaxation massage. Your therapist uses long gliding strokes, kneading and gentle circular movements over the whole body. Pressure stays comfortable throughout, so it's the easy choice if you've never had a massage or simply want an hour to switch off.
What deep tissue massage is like
Deep tissue uses slower strokes and steady pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle where tension tends to build up. Your therapist spends more time on the areas that need it rather than covering everything evenly. It should feel firm, not painful: tell your therapist at any time if the pressure should change.
Can't decide? Book deep tissue and ask for medium pressure. Your therapist can work firmly on your shoulders and back and keep the rest relaxing. You stay in control of the pressure the whole time.
Which length?
60 and 90 minutes are our most popular lengths for both. For deep tissue, we recommend 90 minutes: it leaves time for the whole body plus extra work on problem areas, and at W Spa the 90-minute Deep Tissue ($140) includes a free hot stone add-on ($20 value). More on choosing a length in 60 vs 90 minute massage.
Good to know
- Drink some water afterwards and take it easy for the rest of the day, especially after deep tissue.
- If you're pregnant, choose our prenatal massage instead.
- If you have a medical condition or recent injury, check with your doctor first and mention it to your therapist.
Read more: Swedish massage in Palo Alto · Deep tissue massage in Palo Alto
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Book Swedish or deep tissue in Palo Alto
W Spa, 441 Waverley St, Palo Alto, CA 94301. Open every day from 9:30 AM to 10 PM, with free street parking out front.