Monday 14 April 2014

Common Types of Massage

A massage is a gentle kneading or rubbing of joints and muscles by following a rhythm of hand movements. They are very effective in relieving pain and tension. It is important to understand the various massage therapies available to choose one that best suits your needs.
Here is quick look at the different types of massages.

Aromatherapy massage:

This involves application of scented plant oils also known as essential oils to parts of the body to be massaged. Each oil is has a different role, there are oils for relaxing, relieving stress, balancing and energizing.  This form of therapy is best suitable for relieving stress rather than physical wellness.

Hot stone therapy:

As the name suggests, this involves placement of heated smooth stones on various body parts such as arms. They are very effective in loosening tight muscles. The therapists usually apply some gentle pressure on the stones to create that warm comforting feeling. It is a perfect therapy for people who suffer from muscle pains and tension.

Deep tissue therapy:

This is different from other therapies in this niche as it usually targets the deep layers of muscles as well as connective tissues. The therapist will use slow stokes and friction techniques to work the muscles. It has been used to fight repetitive strain, painful muscles, and postural problems as well as fasten the rate at which one recovers from injuries.

Pregnancy therapy:

 This is also referred to as prenatal massage. It is very effective in reducing pains, swelling, anxiety, stress and depression. Professionals in this nice has the information and skills required to position the mother’s body during the therapy. The techniques used can be modified to suit ones specific needs and preferences.

Thai Massage:

 It helps to align the body energy through application of gentle pressure on specific parts of the body. Compression and stretch techniques are used to do this. Unlike other therapies where one stays in one position all through, in this one, the therapist will stretch and move your body into different postures.  It is considered one of the most energizing massage in the world as it not only relives stress but also improves flexibility of the joints.

Sports therapy:


This is muscle and joint therapy that is offered to athletes. Stokes used to work muscles is usually faster than other types of massages. One of the major reasons why you should seek this form of therapy is that it helps to loosen all body muscles.