What is a deep tissue massage?
Deep tissue massage uses slow, firm, sustained pressure with oil to reach the deeper layers of muscle, rather than just the surface. It focuses on areas of tightness such as the back, shoulders and legs. At Mind & Body Thai Spa in Edinburgh it is our firmest massage, and popular with people who exercise regularly.
- 60, 90 or 120 minutes, from £60
- Our firmest pressure, applied slowly
- Focus on your tightest areas, plus full body work
- Often booked as a sports-style massage after training
- Pressure is always agreed with you first
Firm does not have to mean painful
The most common worry about deep tissue massage is that it will hurt. Good deep tissue work is slow. Your therapist warms the muscle first, then sinks in gradually so the tissue has time to soften instead of tensing up against the pressure. You should feel a strong, satisfying pressure. If anything feels sharp, say so and we will ease off immediately.
Some people feel a little tender the next day, a bit like after a good workout. Drinking water and moving gently afterwards helps.
Deep tissue or sports massage?
Many people searching for a sports massage in Edinburgh are really looking for firm, focused work on tired legs, hips and shoulders after running, cycling or the gym. Our Deep Tissue Massage covers exactly that. We are a spa, not a clinic, so for injury assessment or rehabilitation we would always point you to a physiotherapist.
- Training regularly? 60 to 90 minutes every few weeks keeps on top of tightness.
- Desk-bound? Pair it with focus on the neck and upper back, or book our back, neck and shoulder massage.
- Want stretch too? Our Thai combination massage adds assisted stretches to firm pressure.
Prefer it lighter?
If you want to relax rather than work out knots, a Swedish relax massage or a hot stone massage will suit you better. Not sure? Choose "Not sure yet" on the booking form and we will help you pick.
What happens during your deep tissue massage
- We talk through where you feel tight, any recent injuries and how firm you want to go.
- Broad, warming strokes prepare the muscles before any deep work begins.
- Slow, sustained pressure with forearms, palms and thumbs works into the areas you flagged.
- The rest of the body gets full attention so the session stays balanced.
- We finish with lighter strokes and a few tips for the next 24 hours.
Who it suits
- Runners, cyclists, climbers and gym regulars
- Knots between the shoulder blades and a tight lower back
- People who find most massages too gentle
- Long days at a laptop or behind the wheel
Why guests choose Mind & Body Thai Spa
- Over 12 years in Edinburgh, with regulars who come back time and again
- Rated 4.8 on Google and a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice winner for five years
- Two private single rooms and a double room for couples
- Unhurried treatments, with pressure always agreed with you first
Deep Tissue Massage in Edinburgh: your questions answered
Does deep tissue massage hurt?
It should feel strong, not painful. The pressure is built up slowly once the muscles are warm, and you can ask for lighter or firmer at any time. A little tenderness the next day is normal for some people and usually fades within a day or two.
How much is a deep tissue massage in Edinburgh?
A Deep Tissue Massage at Mind & Body Thai Spa costs £60 for 60 minutes, £90 for 90 minutes or £120 for 120 minutes. We are at 244 Morrison Street in the West End, a short walk from Haymarket station.
Is deep tissue massage the same as sports massage?
They overlap. Both use firm, focused pressure on tight muscles. Sports massage is often delivered in a clinical setting and may include assessment. Our deep tissue massage gives you the firm, targeted work in a calm spa setting, without the clinical side.
How often should I get a deep tissue massage?
It depends on how active you are and how much tension you carry. Many regulars book every three to four weeks. If you train hard, every two weeks during a heavy block can help you feel looser between sessions.
What should I do after a deep tissue massage?
Drink plenty of water, keep moving gently and avoid a hard workout for the rest of the day if you can. A warm shower or bath in the evening is a nice way to round it off.
Related treatments
Book your deep tissue massage
Send us your preferred day and time and we'll reply to confirm. Choose a different treatment from the list if you like, or pick “Not sure yet” and we'll help.
- Every session tailored to you
- Calm, private treatment rooms
- Times confirmed when we reply
Find us near Haymarket
Mind & Body Thai Spa is at 244 Morrison Street in Edinburgh's West End, a short walk from Haymarket railway station and tram stop, and around 15 minutes on foot from Princes Street and the castle. Buses along Dalry Road, Morrison Street and Haymarket Terrace stop close by.
- Address244 Morrison Street
Edinburgh EH3 8DT - Opening hoursMon–Sat 10am – 7pm
Sunday 10am – 5pm - Getting hereHaymarket station & tram stop, a short walk