A massage can be used for different reasons, such as a treatment for medical conditions and injuries. However, it can also be used as a way of producing feelings of relaxation and comfort. In order to gain the most benefits out of your massage, there are different types of massages that will better fit your situation.
Types of Massage
Swedish Massage
A Swedish massage is the most common form of massage. It includes soft and long, kneading hand strokes that massage the layer of muscle. It can also include the light movement of rhythmic tapping. A massage therapist will often use the movement of your joints to release tension in your muscles and joints. This can produce a feeling of relaxation. This is the best form of massage for those who desire relaxation and tension relief.
If you struggle with the tightening of your muscles, a Swedish massage can be helpful for releasing tense sensations in your back, neck and shoulders.
Deep Tissue Massage
A deep tissue massage is great at targeting specific spots in the body. This is done by putting pressure on the layers of muscle, the tendons and the deep areas under the skin. This is a therapeutic massage that can treat chronic patterns of tension. If you have a muscle injury, this is a great massage for treating that.
Sports Massage
Under this massage category, there are a variety of approaches. If you are partial to exercise then this massage can be done before, after or during a sporting event. If this is done before the event, it can help to prevent an injury from happening. However, if this massage is performed after a sports related injury, then it can aid the healing process. This massage can promote flexibility in the body.
Hot Stone Massage
This type of massage therapy includes the process of using heated flat stones and placing them on specific parts of the body. This encourages a state of relaxation to help ease any tense muscles throughout your body. The stones are most commonly placed on:
- The spine
- The stomach
- The chest
- The face
- The hands
- The feet
The heat from the stones causes the body to relax as they release deep heat into the body. This type of massage is also known to ease stress and anxiety.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy works by the sense of smell and skin absorption that can be used by bath salts, body oils, facial steamers and with hot and cold compresses. It is a healing treatment that takes natural plant extracts and benefits your well-being. The smell receptors in your nose will send messages through the nervous system and then to the brain.
Couples Massage
A couples massage is the act of two people getting a massage together, each having their own massage therapist. It is way to spend quality time together and to mutually take part in a relaxing activity. It is a great way for those who are new to massages to be introduced with a partner by their side. This does not have to be a romantic massage as you can attend a couples massage with family or friends.
In additional to the benefits that a couples massage can have on your relationship if you do decide to go with a partner, massages can lower your stress and anxiety levels. Therefore, doing this alongside a companion can have a great affect on the both of you.
Reflexology Massage
This massage is the process of applying various levels of pressure on your hands, ears and your feet. This is thought to establish a connection between these parts of the body and internal organs. This type of massage can reduce stress and anxiety whilst reducing body pain, and having a positive affect on your overall wellbeing.
However, there have been reported side-effects that, whilst they are mild, should be considered. As such, becoming lightheaded and having tender feet, are potential short-term side affects.
Overall benefits of a massage
The overall benefits of a massage can:
- reduce stress
- reduce anxiety
- reduce body pain
- lover heart rate and improve circulation
Whilst massages have an overall benefit to your health, establishing which type is the best way to get the most out of your massage.
