The short answer
| Swedish massage | Deep tissue massage | |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure | Light to firm, steady | Firm and slow |
| Strokes | Long, flowing, whole body | Focused on knots and tight areas |
| Best for | Relaxing, a first massage, monthly upkeep | Stiff neck, tight shoulders, lower back |
| How it feels after | Loose and sleepy | Looser in the worked areas; may feel a little tender the next day |
| At Orion Punawale | Classic Swedish Therapy, 60 min ₹2,850, 90 min ₹4,010 | Phelwan Malish, 60 min ₹3,363, 90 min ₹4,484 |
Prices include GST, checked 3 Nov 2026.
What happens in a Swedish massage
Your therapist uses long, gliding strokes across the back, legs, arms, abdomen, neck and shoulders. The aim is to warm the muscles and help you switch off. The pressure is adjustable: ask for firmer if you like it. It is the massage we suggest to anyone who has never had a spa massage. See the Swedish massage page for the full steps.
What happens in a deep tissue massage
A deep tissue massage starts gently to warm the muscles, then moves to slow, firm pressure on the places that hold tension, usually the neck, shoulders and lower back. At Orion this massage is called Phelwan Malish. Tight spots can feel tender, but it should never hurt; tell your therapist and they will ease off. See the deep tissue massage page.
How to decide
- You sit at a desk all week and your shoulders are stiff: deep tissue.
- You want to sleep well and feel calm: Swedish.
- It’s your first massage: Swedish, 60 minutes.
- You have a recent injury, are pregnant or have a medical condition: talk to your doctor first, and tell the therapist before the session.
A massage eases muscle tension; it is not a medical treatment. For ongoing pain, see a doctor.