Types of Massage in San Francisco: Which One Is Right for You?
When it comes to massage, one size does not fit all. The right massage depends on what your body needs that day: deep relief from a stubborn knot, a calmer nervous system, less swelling, or simply an hour to switch off. This guide walks you through the main types of massage we offer at Mysa Day Spa in San Francisco, who each one is best for, and how to choose the one that is right for you.
The Quick Version
Choose a Swedish massage to relax and de-stress, a deep tissue massage for chronic muscle pain and tension, myofascial release for stiffness and old injuries, lymphatic drainage to reduce swelling and feel lighter, cupping for circulation and stubborn tightness, and prenatal massage for pregnancy-safe relief. Not sure? Keep reading, or call us at (415) 742-5491 and we will match you to the right therapist.
How to Choose the Right Massage for You
Before you book, it helps to answer three quick questions:
- What is your goal? Pure relaxation, or relief from specific pain or tension?
- What pressure do you like? Light, moderate, or deep and firm?
- Any medical considerations? Pregnancy, injuries, chronic conditions, or recent surgery. Always tell your therapist beforehand so they can tailor the session safely.
Massage Types at a Glance
| Massage | Best for | Pressure | Duration & Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swedish (Customized) | Relaxation, stress, circulation | Light to moderate | 50 min $129 · 80 min $190 |
| Deep Tissue (Customized) | Chronic pain, knots, tension | Firm to deep | 50 min $129 · 80 min $190 |
| Integrated Myofascial Release | Stiffness, adhesions, old injuries | Deep, targeted | 50 min $160 · 80 min $190 |
| Lymphatic Drainage | Swelling, recovery, feeling lighter | Very gentle | 50 min $160 · 80 min $230 |
| Cupping Massage | Circulation, deep tightness, detox | Moderate plus suction | 50 min $129 · 80 min [confirm] |
| Prenatal | Pregnancy-safe relief | Gentle | 50 min $129 · 80 min $190 |
*Pricing effective June 15, 2026. See the current massage menu to book.
Detailed Massage Descriptions
Swedish Massage
A Swedish massage uses long, flowing strokes to work the superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue. It is the classic relaxation massage: the slow, gliding movements ease muscular tension, improve circulation, and help your nervous system shift out of fight-or-flight. If you are winding down after a stressful week or new to massage, this is the place to start.
At Mysa, Swedish work is delivered through our Customized Massage, so your therapist can keep the pressure as light or as firm as you like. "Phenomenal. I felt completely relieved of stress and pain," wrote Joko after a 60-minute Swedish session with Maricruz, who guests often describe as leaving them floating on a cloud.
Deep Tissue Massage
If you are dealing with muscle pain, knots, or chronic tension, a deep tissue massage may be the answer. It uses slower strokes and firmer, more focused pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle and fascia, releasing the patterns of tension that build up from desk work, training, or stress. Deep tissue can loosen knots, ease stiffness and soreness, and improve range of motion, and for athletes it helps keep muscles flexible and injury-resistant.
Deep tissue is one of the most-requested services at our West Portal studio, and the reviews speak for themselves. "James gives the best deep tissue massage, bar none," says Adam, while Angelo adds, "Each time I come to Mysa, I leave with all of my ailments resolved." Monica simply called it the "best deep tissue massage I have ever received, good prices too."
Integrated Myofascial Release
Myofascial release targets the fascia, the connective tissue that wraps around your muscles. Our Integrated Myofascial Release is a deeper, more therapeutic technique that works to break down adhesions, lactic acid, and scar tissue across the shoulders, neck, hips, and back. It is ideal if you carry long-standing stiffness, are recovering from an old injury, or feel like a regular massage never quite reaches the problem.
This is a specialty of our therapist Christine, who guests repeatedly call the best. One reviewer, Jessica, described Mysa as a "hidden gem in West Portal" and praised how Christine "educated me and adjusted to exactly what my body needed." Another, Amy, said Christine simply "fixed my shoulder and back pain."
Lymphatic Drainage Massage
A lymphatic drainage massage uses very gentle, rhythmic movements to encourage the flow of lymph fluid through your body. Your lymphatic system clears waste, toxins, and excess fluid, but it can become sluggish, leading to puffiness and swelling. This light-touch massage helps move that fluid along, which can reduce swelling, support circulation and immunity, and leave you feeling noticeably lighter.
It is a favorite for recovery and that refreshed feeling. "I had a lymphatic drainage massage and felt so refreshed afterwards. Will definitely go back," wrote Christina.
Cupping Massage
Cupping is an alternative therapy that places cups on the skin to create gentle suction, drawing blood to the area to loosen tight muscles and stimulate circulation. We use the traditional Chinese method, combining hands-on massage with cupping in a single session. Benefits can include improved circulation, reduced inflammation and muscle tension, and a feeling of release in stubborn areas. It is a great option if you want something beyond standard relaxation.
Read more about the benefits of cupping therapy on our blog.
Prenatal Massage
Pregnancy puts new demands on your body, and a prenatal massage is designed to meet them safely. Using gentle techniques and careful positioning, it relieves the muscle and joint strain that comes with carrying extra weight, while improving blood flow and easing fatigue. It is a soothing way to care for yourself during pregnancy, and because positioning and pressure matter so much here, every prenatal session at Mysa is tailored to your stage and comfort.
Deep Tissue vs. Swedish Massage: Which Should You Pick?
This is the most common question we hear, and the answer comes down to your goal. A Swedish massage is lighter and more relaxing. Choose it to de-stress, improve circulation, and unwind. A deep tissue massage is firmer and more therapeutic. Choose it to address chronic pain, knots, and deep muscular tension.
Choose Swedish if:
- You want to relax
- You are new to massage
- You prefer lighter pressure
Choose Deep Tissue if:
- You have specific pain or tightness
- You sit or train a lot
- You don't mind firm pressure
Still unsure? Our Customized Massage lets your therapist blend both and adjust pressure in real time, so many guests get the best of each.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of massage do I need?
Start with your goal. For relaxation and stress relief, choose Swedish. For chronic pain, knots, or tension, choose deep tissue or myofascial release. For swelling and recovery, choose lymphatic drainage. If you are unsure, our therapists will recommend the best fit when you arrive, or call us before booking.
Does a deep tissue massage hurt?
Deep tissue uses firm pressure, so you may feel some intensity as your therapist works through tight areas, but it should never be unbearable. Good communication is key: tell your therapist if the pressure is too much, and they will adjust. Mild soreness for a day afterward is normal.
How often should you get a massage?
For general wellness and stress relief, once a month is a good rhythm. If you are working through chronic pain, a specific injury, or training hard, every one to two weeks can be more effective until things improve. Your therapist can suggest a cadence based on your needs.
What does a lymphatic drainage massage do?
It uses gentle, rhythmic strokes to move lymph fluid through your body, helping clear waste and excess fluid. The result is often reduced swelling and puffiness, better circulation, immune support, and a lighter, refreshed feeling. Drink plenty of water afterward and avoid intense exercise for the rest of the day.
Where can I get a massage in West Portal or San Francisco?
Mysa Day Spa is located at 339A W Portal Ave, San Francisco, CA 94127, in the heart of West Portal. We offer Swedish, deep tissue, myofascial release, lymphatic drainage, cupping, and prenatal massage. Book through our massage menu or call (415) 742-5491.
Find Your Perfect Massage at Mysa Day Spa
Everyone's body is different, and the right massage is the one matched to what you need. Our team of experienced therapists at our West Portal studio will happily help you decide, whether that is a relaxing Swedish session, a deep tissue treatment for stubborn pain, or something more specialized.
Come experience why our guests keep calling us a hidden gem in West Portal.
