If you’ve ever looked at what massage therapists in your area offer and seen both ‘bodywork’ and ‘massage’ on the menu, you may be a little confused. Aren’t they the same thing? It’s a common question, and you’re not alone in your uncertainty.
While they may seem like interchangeable terms, there are some subtle differences between massage and bodywork techniques.
In this blog, I’ll delve a little deeper into both massage therapy and bodywork, their differences, and their similarities. So, next time you’re planning some self-care, you’ll know exactly what you’re looking for.
What is bodywork?
Bodywork therapy is a broad term for a combination of breathwork, energy healing, and different hands-on techniques used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. It aims to provide a holistic approach to health, with a focus on the mind-body connection and the spiritual aspects of healing.
Bodywork therapists can offer a range of services including myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, and reiki.
Myofascial release
This is a type of physical therapy that’s best for those dealing with chronic pain caused by specific muscle tension and sensitivity. ‘Myo’ means muscle and ‘fascia’ is the connective tissue that runs throughout your muscles, bones, nerves, arteries, and organs.
This kind of bodywork therapy focuses on easing specific painful areas. Your massage therapist will look for rigid parts of the tissue to begin working on. They’ll then stretch and manipulate these areas to release the muscle contractions that put pressure on the surrounding tissue, ideally resulting in pain relief and increased mobility of the affected area.
Studies have shown that myofascial release significantly improves chronic lower back pain and physical function. It can be particularly effective for those dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder of the jaw, and even migraines.
Craniosacral therapy
This treatment focuses on the craniosacral system, which involves the fluids and membranes that protect the brain, spinal cord, and central nervous system. It’s a non-invasive therapy that can reduce discomfort in those with head, neck, shoulder, or back pain.
Gentle pressure is used on the head, neck, and back to relieve any pain caused by musculoskeletal tightness. This light manipulation of the bones in the skull, spine, and pelvis aims to free up the tissue surrounding the craniosacral system to allow the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.
Reiki
Reiki is an ancient Japanese healing practice rooted in Buddhist teachings. It involves energy work that can help with deep relaxation, emotional and physical healing, and overall well-being. Those who practice Reiki say that energy stagnates in the body where there has been physical or emotional pain, and that over time, these energy blocks may lead to illness.
A Reiki practitioner will place their hands lightly on or over certain areas of the body to transfer what’s known as the universal life force energy onto the client. The benefits are thought to include improved physical health, better sleep quality, and emotional healing.
What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy falls under the bodywork umbrella. Rhythmic strokes and varying degrees of pressure are used on the muscles and soft tissues to promote relaxation and pain relief.
Massage therapy includes a wide variety of techniques:
- Deep tissue massage: This targets chronic pain in muscles that lie well below the body’s surface. A deep tissue massage will usually include slow strokes with deep pressure to get to the inner layers of muscle and connective tissue. It can reduce pain and help those dealing with sports injuries, sciatica, and fibromyalgia.
- Aromatherapy massage: This is best for those who want a more relaxing experience than a deep tissue massage. Your massage therapist will use diluted essential oils on their hands so your skin can absorb their benefits. This type of massage can boost your mood and ease mental and physical tension.
- Shiatsu massage: Originating in Japan, this therapeutic massage uses fingertip pressure to target specific areas of the body. It can loosen tight muscles, improve circulation, and release stored energy or qi.
Now that we’re up to speed with what bodywork and massage are, let’s look at some similarities and differences.
Differences and similarities
One key difference is that, while all massage therapy is bodywork, not all bodywork sessions involve massage. Bodywork takes a more holistic approach that includes the physical body but also extends into energy work and other healing techniques, addressing the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit.
While massage therapy can have incredible benefits for the body (and consequently, the mind), the aim is mostly to relieve muscle tension and pain. You may experience spiritual or emotional relief during or after a massage, but generally, it’s a more localized physical treatment than other forms of bodywork.
Bodywork and massage are alike in that they can both decrease pain, reduce stress, and promote improved well-being. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive approach to your overall health, bodywork can be a great place to start.
Interested in a bodywork or massage therapy session?
Whether you’re looking for a massage to work out those stubborn knots in your back or you want to try something different with a Reiki session, Awakening with Angela has something to offer everyone.
At my studio, I customize each session with your needs in mind. My bodywork therapy sessions are created with intention and healing at the forefront. I incorporate multiple modalities each time we meet for an experience tailor-made for you.
If you’re ready to overcome your struggles and be reborn into the person you were meant to be, I’m here to help you learn the tools to guide you on your healing journey.
Book your massage today and consider adding on a 15-minute Reiki session to help you with any physical, emotional, or spiritual challenges you’re facing.
