What kind of Massage is best for me?

Choosing the right massage can be life-changing, offering physical relief and a path to better well-being. This article explores our range of therapies and how tailored pressure—guided by science and your comfort—leads to the best results.

Thai Bodywork: Dynamic and Fully Clothed

Thai Bodywork is ideal if you're looking to deeply relax, reduce muscle tension, relieve stress, and experience gentle full-body stretches. This style of bodywork is conducted completely clothed on a large mat on the floor and utilizes rhythmic compressions with the palms, elbows, forearms, and fingers of the therapist, gentle passive stretching, and a meditative pace. We ensure a personalized approach based on age, joint range of motion, and health goals, often incorporating techniques from Restorative Yoga, Active Isolated Stretching, Reflexology, Myofascial Release, and Neuromuscular Energy Techniques

Integrative Massage: A Regular "Massage" Personalized for Your Needs

Our Integrative Massage blends techniques to address your specific concerns. Whether you're dealing with joint or muscle aches, stress, or systemic issues, this session adapts to your body's requirements.

If you are presenting with pain in a particular area, we may do an orthopedic assessment (as we were trained by Dr. Ben Benjamin), and use targeted manual therapy techniques including trigger point release, active isolated stretching, myofascial release, and more. For those seeking relaxation, methods like Swedish massage, reflexology, energy work, guided breathing techniques, and the use of Ayurvedic oils may be incorporated. 

Prenatal and Postpartum Massage: Support for Mothers

Prenatal and Postpartum Massage can help address common challenges of postural, hormonal, and identity change in the journey to motherhood. Prenatal Massage utilizes techniques from our integrative massage for pain relief and nervous system/emotional support, with awareness of the stages of each trimester and pregnancy-related postural distortions. Postpartum Ayurvedic Massage, often received during the first 6-8 weeks postpartum, involves a whole-body session with nourishing oils like sesame or medicated postpartum Ayurvedic oil, aiming to support recovery and well-being.

Orthopedic and Sports Massage: Targeted Relief

For those recovering from injuries or experiencing chronic pain, our Orthopedic and Sports Massage therapies are designed to restore function and alleviate discomfort. These sessions may include techniques like trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and assisted stretching to address specific musculoskeletal issues. These sessions are often what people are wanting when they are seeking “Deep Tissue Massage”. 

Medical Massage: Clinical and Insurance-Based

Medical Massage is aimed at restoring function and reducing pain after a catastrophic collision injury. These sessions consist of orthopedic techniques: scar tissue release, neuromuscular re-education, and myofascial release for conditions such as brain injury, spinal cord injury, multiple fractures, or neurological disorders. A prescription for massage is required from your doctor. You must call us first to book, to see if your insurance will cover your sessions

Understanding Massage Pressure: Insights from PainScience.com

When choosing a massage, one of the most common questions clients have is about pressure—how deep should it be, and does deeper always mean better? According to Paul Ingraham’s in-depth article on PainScience.com, the idea that "deeper is better" is more myth than fact. While some people associate intense pressure with effective treatment, research and experience suggest that overly deep or painful massage can actually be counterproductive—and even harmful in some cases.

Ingraham explores the phenomenon of “good pain,” where pressure might feel intense but is oddly satisfying. However, this experience is highly subjective. For one person, it might bring relief; for another, it could trigger stress responses or even tissue damage. The key takeaway? There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to pressure in bodywork.

The article argues for a balanced approach, where massage therapists apply just enough pressure to be effective, without overwhelming the nervous system or causing unnecessary discomfort. It also challenges the old "no pain, no gain" mentality, reminding us that skilled, responsive touch—customized to your body’s needs—usually achieves far better results than brute force.

At Ann Arbor Massage & Yoga Therapy, we take this philosophy seriously. Whether you’re receiving Integrative Massage, Thai Bodywork, or Medical Massage, our therapists carefully calibrate pressure based on your comfort, goals, and feedback. You should always feel safe, respected, and empowered to speak up during your session.

In short: the best massage isn’t the deepest—it’s the one that listens to your body.

Take the next step toward a personalized healing experience. Book your session online with us in Ann Arbor or Chelsea and discover the transformative benefits of a massage that truly listens to your body. Visit our website to schedule your appointment and begin your journey to improved health and well-being.