If you’re looking to relax and unwind, massage can be the perfect remedy. From soothing Swedish massage to tantalizing Thai massage, we’ve rounded up 10 massage techniques that are guaranteed to send you into a serene state of body bliss.
1. Swedish massage – Get ready for a full-body massage that relieves tension and improves circulation. This massage style uses a combination of five massage techniques including effleurage (gentle stroking), petrissage (kneading), friction, vibration, and tapotement (gentle tapping) to relax the body from head to toe.
2. Shiatsu massage – Translated as “finger pressure massage”, shiatsu massage is an ancient Japanese massage technique that uses finger and palm pressure to improve circulation, reduce stress, and restore balance. This massage style is often performed on a floor mat or futon on the ground with the receiver wearing comfortable clothing.
3. Hot stone massage – Heated basalt stones are placed on key energy points along the body to help reduce tension, melt away stress and relax muscles. The massage therapist will massage you with oil while holding the hot stones in their hands and massage them into your skin.
4. Reflexology – This massage style uses pressure to certain areas of the feet that correspond to other parts of the body. This massage style helps to improve circulation and induce relaxation while decreasing tension in certain areas.
5. Prenatal massage – Expectant mothers can find relief from pregnancy discomfort with this massage style as it helps to reduce stress, improve posture, alleviate pain, and promote relaxation. The massage therapist will use pillows and bolsters to massage the pregnant woman in comfortable positions.
6. Deep tissue massage – This massage style focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue through slower strokes and more direct pressure or friction. It is used to treat chronic muscle pain, injury rehabilitation, reduce stress and anxiety, improve posture, etc.
7. Aromatherapy massage – This massage style uses essential oils that are applied to the body in various massage techniques such as Swedish massage. The massage therapist will use essential oils to massage your skin and help you relax, restore balance and improve overall wellbeing.
8. Sports massage – This massage style is beneficial for those involved in physical activities such as running, cycling or any sport. It helps to reduce recovery time from sports-related injuries and improve performance. The massage therapist will focus on areas of the body that are overused and stressed from repetitive motions.
9. Lomi lomi massage – Originating in Hawaii, this massage style combines massage techniques with spiritual components. It is believed to promote healing, physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. The massage therapist will use their forearms and hands to massage you in a fluid-like motion as if they’re dancing with your body.
No matter which massage style you choose, it’s guaranteed that you’ll be feeling relaxed and refreshed in no time. So, why not give massage therapy a try today? Your body will thank you!
Happy massage-ing! 🙂