Aromatherapy, warm lotion, whimsical harp music — what’s not to love? But what happens when a gentle relaxation massage doesn’t cut it? Sometimes you need to go deeper.

During a deep tissue massage, your massage therapist will use techniques that help alleviate severe muscle soreness. They’ll use skills similar to those showcased in other styles of massage, but the movements will be slower and the pressure deeper.

Your massage therapist will single out specific areas of pain and tension. The tougher touch helps them work out knots in the sub-layer of muscles and fascia. Think of fascia as a net that keeps your muscles together. Have you ever cooked a chicken breast? Fascia is that thin, clear film that surrounds the meat.