What is deep tissue massage?
As a deep tissue massage therapist in Hackney, one of the most common questions I get is ‘what does “deep tissue” actually mean?’
Confusingly, different therapists will mean different things. So it might be easier to define deep tissue massages by what they aren’t. Its a common misconception that deep tissue is about using heavy pressure to “work out” “knots” that are causing pain, and that this intense force realigns the source of the pain in some way. This is why often get clients seeing me for the first time who say, “apply as much pressure as you can, I can take the pain!“
Unfortunately, this isn’t a good deep tissue massage. It might technically be digging in deep into the muscles. But the body as a whole is unlikely to be able to receive heavy, painful treatment. So the higher pressure probably isn’t having a stronger effect. Its more likely to be numbing, or cause of a different kind of pain. For some clients, this can feel like relief in the short term. In the long term, its the same principle as pressing on a bruise.
Deep tissue massage is about slow, careful work that melts tissues at a deeper level to a traditional Sports or Swedish massage. In my massage practice, that involves using Fascial Release techniques that we might not think of as “deep”. These gently and slowly elongate and broaden the connective tissue of the muscle, which has lenghtening and relaxing effects on associated muscles, tendons, ligaments, and patterns of strain. These techniques are “deeper” in the sense that they go far beyond a patch of sore muscle.
Its once I’ve contacted the body in this way that deep tissue can also involve techniques such as: progressively sinking into deeper parts of the muscle with heavier pressure ; accessing muscles that lie deeper in the body; and using breathing and trigger point techniques to be deeply present with emotional and physical restrictions in the body. This is perhaps what clients consider to be more “traditional” deep tissue massage – but crucially, is only possible within the context of a gentle, thoughtful approach.
For example in this video on Instagram, my fist’s firm pressure melts the tissue, allowing me to work deeper with a little elbow later. My client gets broad superficial pressure and targeted deep pressure at the same time. The elbow feels more like what we think of as deep tissue massage, but both techniques are working together to progressively and powerfully free the tissues. At the same time, these techniques are progressive and gentle, and won’t make my client tense up on the table, or feel pain afterwards.
This is real deep tissue massage – addressing your pain, without any pain.
I would love to arrange our massage, so we can shift the tension you’ve been feeling. And I have a special offer at the moment! My appointments are limited, so make sure you don’t miss out. I look forward to hearing from you. – Cat
- Nat
I had a session of myofascial release with massage cat and it’s truly different from anything I’ve had before. Their approach is so gentle and I really felt listened to both in the consultations and on the table in their hands. The effect was very powerful and I felt a deeper relaxation than I’d felt in a long time and a lot more ease in my body afterwards. I didn’t feel like I was being pushed into something intense, but more like some deep stagnant parts of me got some space to breathe. I have had 2 sessions with massage cat and will be returning as the experience feels really comfortable but effective.
- natalie
Have been wanting to book in for a treatment for a while after I came across Massage Cat on Instagram, and finally managed to find a slot! It was everything I was hoping it would be, Cat had a gentle and inviting energy, and we talked through what I wanted out of the treatment. She used plenty of deeply relaxing myofascial techniques, her pressure was intuitive and spot on - her slow, rhythmic pacing was deeply relaxing, I found myself instantly able to relax out of my busy brain. I enjoyed it so much I've booked again and will recommend her to friends. As a massage therapist myself, I really value good therapists and can highly recommend Cat! Thanks again for a great treatment 🙂
- Oluwatosin
Even before I had my massage, I was anticipating good things based on Cat's clear communication, which continued throughout the session. I had an incredible massage - firm without being painful, relaxing and effective. Cat checked in, listened and responded to any request for change (there was only one - to turn the heating up!), and I felt able to let go and simply be in the moment. I have recommended Cat to multiple people I love, and am looking forward to going back soon.
- Ray
SUCH a gorgeous massage with someone who has a deep knowledge of and respect for the body, and knows how to create a really holding and comfortable space. I love how Massage Cat Therapies can treat bodies and sensations beyond 'good' and 'bad'. The experience was so tailored to what I was experiencing in my body and I felt listened to and really cared for. 100% would recommend especially if you are trans, neurodivergent, brown, fat... all of the above (like me!)
- Marcus
As a deaf man who relies on lipreading as well as being able to converse through writing things down, I appreciated not only having an amazing massage but also the fact that they took the time and patience to understand my communication needs and to communicate well with me throughout the session, which is very rare. It was my first time and they made me feel very comfortable throughout. I left feeling much more relaxed and no longer had pain and tension in my shoulders, neck and back. Definitely will go back again
- Hikmah
Truly amazing. Super clear communication, Cat makes you feel at ease from booking the appointment. They allow you to take your time and had a pre/post massage discussion. Worked with breath (as mentioned in our coversation) and truly made me feel relaxed and cared for which carried me throughout the day. 12/10 highly recommend!
- Al
Incredibly gentle yet strong massage! Lovely, soothing environment. Cat has a very sensitive approach & the booking process is extremely straight forward. I couldn't recommend my experience enough! It transformed my understanding of 'pain' that I typically associate with massage that has physical as well as mental health benefits. I will definitely be becoming a regular. Thank you Cat!
- Sasha
This was the best massage I have ever had! Cat created such a peaceful, open, and inviting space. Cats combination of fascial and other massage techniques made the experience so peaceful, and I was transported somewhere else. I had issues with my neck and shoulders, which we worked through in a calm, slow and meditative way. I felt so relaxed and calm afterwards. I will definitely be coming again. Cat is incredible, gentle and so talented. Thankyou 🙂
- Jo
I cannot recommend Cat enough- clear in communication, loving to your body, caring for your soul! I told Cat about the trouble I was having with my back and my upper glute- and we not only focused on these areas, but Cat really just relaxed my body- I fell asleep, and felt like I was in light travel, going in an out- a massage so meditative and medicinal <3
- Taro
As a trans person who is also autistic and has ADHD, I often struggle with the logistics of making/attending appointments, however, Massage Cat Therapy made the process of booking in for a massage extremely pleasant and comfortable. Prior to booking, I emailed Massage Cat to communicate my access needs - they were very responsive and communicative and I felt confident and reassured that they could accommodate for my specific needs. I was warmly welcomed by Massage Cat and we had a brief chat going over my medical history/problem areas/general expectations from the massage, this helped to ground me and ease me into the space. The actual massage was incredible - I have genuinely never felt so relaxed in my life. Massage Cat is a very skilled massage therapist and has a very reassuring and calming energy; it is clear from their work that they are passionate about massage. I have struggled with shoulder pain and neck tension for years and have accessed various types of massage to try and relieve my pain. Not only was my massage with Massage Cat wonderfully relaxing, I also felt immense relief from my pain. I would highly recommend Massage Cat Therapy if you are seeking deep relaxation and/or pain relief in a safe and welcoming space. I am very much looking forward to booking in for another massage again soon! - G
