Bodywork or Massage Therapy? What is the difference and which one is for me?
When I began practicing massage therapy, I assumed that my sessions were similar to a massage one would receive from a massage therapist anywhere. Yet, I quickly discovered that this was not the case. Routinely, my clients would say, “I have never experienced a massage like that before.” I started to ask myself what was causing my clients to have such a unique experience. I soon realized what it was.
Muscular Systems vs. Whole Body Systems
When I graduated from massage therapy school sixteen years ago, I felt inspired and passionate about learning as much as I could. As I embarked on a new massage career, I wanted to be as experienced and knowledgeable as possible. Right away, I dove into studying a wide variety of body therapies, including Thai Massage, Craniosacral Therapy, Shiatsu, Visceral Manipulation, and Structural Integration. At the time, I didn’t really consider the fact that I was attracted to and learning therapies that work with entire body systems, rather than just the muscular systems.
I implemented all of these therapies into my work, along with massage, because I wanted to be able to address the needs of my clients in the best way possible. Many people who schedule a massage, are often in need of therapy that works with more than muscles. Structural Integration helps me to address how the connective tissue (or fascia) interacts with muscles, organs, and bones to influence posture. Visceral Manipulation gives me the ability to work directly with organs and how they relate with the digestive system. Utilizing both Thai Massage and Shiatsu allows me to experience how energy flows through the body and to work with the meridian system. Thai massage also supports working with range of motion and joints.
These therapies are not considered massage, but rather “bodywork” because they work with body systems. Massage therapy is actually also a type of bodywork.
Which is best for me: Massage or Bodywork?
Massage
If you are looking to improve your overall well-being, reduce stress and unwind, or if you have particular acute muscular issues due to injury or chronic muscular issues due to lifestyle and posture, it is common to choose massage therapy. In the West, most massage therapy principally involves working with muscles. Classically trained massage therapists will work to release muscular tissue through various kneading or gliding motions. Massage therapy is performed with skin-to-skin contact.
Bodywork
If you are experiencing pain, low energy, or issues with posture or flexibility, bodywork is often the best choice. Depending on the type of Bodywork, it is either practiced skin-to-skin like massage, or while the client is fully clothed.
When you come for a session with me here in Ashland, Oregon, there is no need to choose between massage and bodywork. What makes my work unique is that I integrate both massage and bodywork to best serve your needs. I work intuitively once I know what needs to be addressed and what results you would like to achieve.
Choosing a Massage Therapist
When searching for a massage therapist or body worker, it can be a good idea to ask questions. Here are some suggestions:
- – What type of work do you do and how do you relate to it?
- – How would you address my symptoms?
- – Are you able to shift modalities to serve my needs?
- – Are you able to adjust the amount of pressure you use?
- – Are you willing to help me feel comfortable and meet me at my level of modesty?
Your body is sacred. By asking questions and communicating your needs, you’ll be most likely to find a therapist who honors you and will best serve you.
If you have any questions for me or would like to schedule a session, please click here.
