I'm recently a new customer. Was completely and utterly blown away by the efficiency of my massage lady, was kind caring and considerate and gentle. Genuinely patient and very, very professional. It was one of the most enjoyable moments in my recent life. Was life changing. Was perfect, and I am so, so impressed I'm now booking regular appointments before the time I spent with Laki (masseuse). I'm completely sold — a new customer and a new believer, impressed with a technique built on 5,000 years of knowledge of the body, tending to muscles that have suffered through lack of physical attention. Would recommend Laki and Red Peony to everyone, in your 20s, 30s, 40s onwards — it's such a valuable experience. Really, honestly, future customers reading the reviews: I'm always full of trust and always truthful. I'm 65 and very experienced through my life — martial arts for 40 years.
Relaxing Massage vs Deep Tissue Massage: How to Choose the Right One
If you’re booking a massage and aren’t sure which type to choose, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we hear. Both relaxing massage and deep tissue massage can be part of a healthy routine, but they’re built for different goals, and picking the wrong one can leave you disappointed either way.
The core difference
A relaxing massage uses long, flowing strokes and gentle to moderate pressure. The aim is to calm the nervous system, ease everyday tension, and help you unwind — it’s the session to book when you want to switch off and de-stress.
A deep tissue massage works more slowly and deliberately, applying firmer, targeted pressure to reach deeper muscle layers. It’s aimed at areas of ongoing tightness, such as a stiff lower back from sitting at a desk all week, rather than general relaxation. Some people find a deep tissue session more intense in the moment, but feel looser and more comfortable once the muscle guarding has eased.
A simple way to decide
Ask yourself what you’re mainly looking for right now:
- Want to switch off and feel calm? A relaxing massage is the better starting point.
- Have a specific area that’s been tight or achy for weeks? A deep tissue massage is more likely to help.
- Not sure, or dealing with both stress and tension? It’s completely fine to start with a relaxing session and switch to deep tissue another time — there’s no need to commit to one style forever.
One honest note: a deep tissue massage isn’t meant to feel like a spa treatment. If firm pressure on a tender area sounds uncomfortable rather than appealing, a relaxing massage is the safer first choice.
Booking with Red Peony
We offer both as dedicated services in Northwood, London, so you can pick whichever fits how you’re feeling this week — and if you’re unsure on the day, our therapists are happy to talk it through before the session starts. You can check availability and book a massage online in a couple of minutes.