At least 200 massage techniques offer various health and relaxation benefits worldwide.
Although not critical, it is essential to know which type of massage to choose to get the full benefits. Our preferences vary based on several factors, which is why most people try different techniques. It is also recommended that you acquire the services of a certified masseuse.
Discover something you haven’t heard or tried before.
Swedish Massage
This may be the most popular one and the best choice for first-timers. It’s a whole-body therapeutic massage that relaxes and reduces stress, with many other benefits. Talk to your therapist about your preferences, like the areas you want her to concentrate on.
The masseuse usually starts and ends with long and smooth strokes. It also involves kneading and rolling the muscles with oil. Deep pressure is also applied to certain areas of the body using the thumb or knuckles. Other strokes, like tapping and vibration, are slowly losing popularity because many consider them unrelaxing.
Deep Tissue Massage
This technique is almost similar to Swedish massage in strokes but targets the deeper layer of the muscles, tendons, and fascia. It is also more of a treatment than relaxation. The masseuse uses their knuckles and elbows to deal with the problematic knotted muscles, usually in the back, shoulder, and neck.
It is also more expensive because of the additional effort needed. You must tell your therapist about it if you feel too much pressure. This is perfect if you have stiff or painful muscles, repetitive strain, or are recovering from an injury. This is why most athletes also use it as part of their recovery. If you choose this, expect to feel sore for up to 48 hours.
Shiatsu Massage
This technique originated in Japan, meaning “finger pressure.” It is aimed at overall health and rejuvenation. The therapist uses their fingers and palms to create a rhythmic sequence. Firm pressure is used, but you will be delighted to know you will not have soreness after, unlike the deep tissue massage. There have been many reports that their pain and stress were significantly reduced after just one session. However, shiatsu should not be considered an alternative treatment for any medical condition.
Thai Massage
This may be the most stimulating technique. The therapist stretches and applies pressure to loosen the body.
Unlike conventional bodywork, you don’t lie on the bed or sit in a chair. It’s like doing Yoga but with the help of someone else. Not only is it very energizing and relaxing, but it also improves your flexibility.
Thai massage is not for everyone, especially if you are pregnant or recovering from an injury. If you have any doubts, ask your doctor, and make sure that the therapist is accredited and knows your health status. You should inform your therapist of discomfort or pain during the session.
Sports Massage
This is perfect for athletes, but you don’t have to be into sports to appreciate it. If you are always active, like your profession requires you to be on the go, you might benefit from it.
It combines several techniques discussed in this article but is specifically designed for your sport or activity, like the legs for runners and the arms for boxers.
It is known for improving blood circulation and stretching muscles to prevent injuries and improve performance. It is also known in the sports industry for its psychological effects, such as better relaxation and reduced anxiety.
Reflexology Massage
It is based on the premise that every part of our body and organs has corresponding points on our feet and hands and that by applying pressure to such points, a form of treatment or alleviation of pain is achieved. Although there is still no concrete medical evidence for this, there have been many reports from individuals who have tried reflexology that are positive.
The session usually starts with a short assessment of your health and lifestyle. Then, the reflexologist stimulates specific points and applies pressure to your feet.
Reflexology is usually mistaken for foot massage, but it’s more complex than that. The latter is more similar to Swedish massage. This technique is highly appreciated by those with problematic feet and those who are always on their feet.
Aromatherapy Massage
This very relaxing massage involves essential oils from flowers and herbs. It is perfect if you are undergoing any stress-related conditions or just plainly feeling low. It has been proven many times that a pleasant aroma improves our mood. Our nose is connected to a part of our brain called the limbic system, which controls our moods and emotions.
Of course, you can have the scent of your choice. If you don’t know what to pick, ask your spa or parlor for a guide on which is appropriate for you. For instance, rosemary is for energizing and cleansing, eucalyptus and tea tree are for decongesting, and lavender, the most famous, is for relaxing.
Hot Stone Massage
This variety of massage is primarily for relaxation, but it is also very effective in relieving tension, improving circulation, and easing muscle stiffness. The idea is that the heat relaxes the muscles and expands the blood vessels.
Smooth stones are heated and placed on specific areas of your back. The therapist also uses the stones to massage your body by soaking it with essential oil and applying a little pressure. This is perfect for those with stiff muscles who do not prefer a hard massage.
One interesting twist is to alternatively apply cold stone, which uses chilled marbles, during the session.
Trigger Point Massage
This technique is similar to deep tissue and can also be confused with pressure point therapy. It uses vibrations, pressure, and strokes to reach trigger points that cause pain and discomfort.
Unlike deep tissue, this does not involve the whole body. Instead, only the specific problematic areas are dealt with. Many reports have shown a significant decrease in pain with just one session.
If you try this, you may also be asked to get involved by deep breathing and locating the exact location of the problem area.
Consider getting the affordable Body Back Buddy if you want your self-massaging tool.
Craniosacral Therapy Massage
This form of bodywork involves the therapist applying gentle touches to the face, skull, spinal column, and sacrum. It relieves tension and stress but should not be used to treat diseases and other medical problems.
This is perfect for those who have migraines, neck and back problems, and other chronic pain in the face, head, and spine. If you regularly have headaches due to stress, you will surely love this treatment. You can ask the therapist to concentrate on the scalp massage if you want to. Others who have tried this therapy also reported getting better sleep and feeling re-energized.
Conclusion
Stress is the main reason people get a massage, but there are many other benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, improving circulation, and alleviating pain.
However, you should always talk to your doctor before trying out a session, especially if you are pregnant, injured, or have a severe health condition.
After a good massage, you will feel relaxed, but you can expect up to two days of discomfort. It should not be painful, but a good kind of discomfort, like after doing stretching exercises or yoga.
You should enjoy your experience rather than endure the whole session. If you find it too hard, it is essential to communicate with your therapist.
If you went for a session to have a specific part of your body treated because of pain or discomfort, you should not expect immediate results. It may take several visits before you start noticing improvement.
Also, it is highly recommended that you get a massage regularly and not just when you feel like it.
If you love massages but find it very expensive and time-consuming to visit a spa every week, consider getting a robotic massage chair. You don’t have to go for expensive products as many great products cost less than $500.
