The Most Common Types of Massage

Massage therapy is characterized as a systematic flexing of the soft tissues of the body in the aim of regularizing them. In a nutshell, massage is a method of aerating and stroking the body with the use of the hands. During the course of the massage, a therapist is expected to employ light or firm pressure to the muscles and joints to help alleviate the tension and pain. Just like any other practices, massages also differ in a variety of ways such as areas of focused, healing approaches, and techniques. Summarized below are among the most common type of massages, its benefits, and distinctive procedures.

Hot Stone Massage

A hot stone of massage is a type of therapeutic massage which mainly utilizes heated stones in the hopes of relieving muscle pain and tension. In addition, a hot stone massage is also excellent in amplifying the blood flow as well as in mitigating stress and promoting relaxation. In the midst of a hot stone massage, the massage therapist will put heated stones on distinguishable areas around the client’s body. Moreover, it is also expected of the massage therapist to hold a stone as they put gentle pressure on the different parts of the client’s body. Alternatively, therapists also make use of cold stones when necessary. Normally, a hot stone massage lasts 90 minutes long.

Swedish Massage

On the other hand, a Swedish massage is a pleasant type of therapy which is highly recommended for people who are susceptible to touch, new to massage, and suffer a lot of stress. Unlike a hot stone massage, a Swedish massage is far more inexpensive as the therapist utilizes an extreme combination of deep circular strokes, kneading, vibration, tapping, and passive joint movement approaches. Among the primary benefits of a Swedish massage is its competence to release muscle knots, thus, providing the client more flaccidity. Ordinarily, a Swedish massage will span for more than an hour.

Deep Tissue Massage

Dissimilar to Swedish massage, a deep tissue massage applies more pressure. This type of therapeutic massage is a great option for clients who are experiencing chronic muscle issues such as imbalance, injuries, and swelling. However, it is worth remembering that a deep tissue massage is not suitable for overly sensitive clients as the massage therapist will employ gentle strokes and firm pressure to moderate pain from the widest levels of your connective tissues and muscles. Although a deep tissue may sound a little extreme, the client shouldn’t experience any pain or discomfort. Similar to the Swedish massage, a deep tissue therapy normally lasts about 60 to 90 minutes.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a type of massage which chiefly concentrates on pressure points of the client’s ears, hands, and feet. It is most desirable for people who are trying to relax or retrieve their typical energy levels. Additionally, it is also more appropriate for clients who feel uncomfortable being touched on their whole body. Interestingly enough, people who want to try this type of massage can wear loose and comfortable clothing that gives the therapist access to their legs. Moreover, a reflexology massage goes on for 30 to 60 minutes.

Chair Massage

Contradictory to the above-mentioned massages, a chair massage is ideal for people who want an instantaneous session that concentrates on the back, shoulders, and neck. Typically, a chair massage lasts around 10 to 30 minutes and involves to light to medium pressure. It is essential in lessening stress and promoting relaxation.

Thai Massage

A Thai massage is an active form of massage which is mainly performed to help plummet and comfort stress and discomfort. In addition, it also plays a critical part in improving energy levels, flexibility, and circulation. Just like chair massages, the client can also remain fully clothed during the session. It is, however, worth mentioning that Thai massage is completely different from chair massages as it uses an array of palm and finger movements that are similar to yogic stretching. A Thai massage is expected to last for 60 to 90 minutes.

Prenatal Massage

A prenatal massage is one of the safest ways for women to get a massage during their pregnancy period. Through prenatal massages, pregnant women are able to dial down stress and pregnancy body aches as well as calm muscle discomfort. While every pregnant woman can get a prenatal massage, most massage facilities do not provide massages to women who are on their first trimester since it might increase the danger of miscarriage. Similar to Swedish massage, a prenatal massage utilizes delicate pressure as the therapist primarily concentrates on the hips, legs, and the lower back.

Trigger Point Massage

Meanwhile, trigger point massages are well-matched for clients who are suffering from chronic discomfort or injuries. By simply concentrating on soothing trigger points, this massage can dramatically taper off the pain. In addition, trigger point massages utilize gushing and extensive strokes that are light and relax. Even though the massage therapist will generally focus on a particularized part of the body, a trigger point massage is also more than likely to include work on the client’s entire body.

Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu massage is a Japanese therapeutic massage therapy, which helps in releasing muscle tension, headaches, depression, stress, and anxiety as well as foster physical and emotional tranquil. During the session, the therapist will use rhythmic or pulsing pressure on certain points of the body. Addedly, shiatsu massages typically go on from 60 to 90 minutes.

Aromatherapy Massage

Not to be outdone are aromatherapy massages which are excellent for people who want to experience an emotional healing peripheral to their sessions. Certain upsides of aromatherapy massages include reducing the symptoms of depression as well as scaling down anxiety and stress. On top of that, this type of massage can likewise ease muscle discomfort and bolster everyone’s mood.

Sports Massage

Ordinarily, sports massages are tailored for athletes in order to warm up the body for athletic competitions and prevent injuries. However, one could also use sports massage in increasing flaccidity and performance as well as in mollifying anxiety, pain, and muscle stiffness. Furthermore, a sports massage can also be completed as a full-body massage since the masseuse may concentrate on the parts of the body that require immediate care.

Couple’s Massage

A couple’s massage is a type of therapy which can be enjoyed with a family member, partner, or friend in the same room. It is supercharged with all the upsides of a typical massage as well as entry to spa facilities such as saunas and hot tubs. Other than that, a couple’s massage is also loaded with treatments that include body scrubs, facials, and pedicures.

Conclusion

Generally, massages bring physical, emotional, and mental benefits. For best results, it is best to always interact with the therapist. In addition, you can find a massage therapy clinic nearby and enjoy the benefits of this therapeutic technique. You can also use this website link here to find the best spa or clinic near you.