Which Massage Styles Do You Prefer?

Massage is a great way to relax, ease tension, and promote a healthy immune system. Massage is no longer just a way to give your body a treat. It has become mainstream and fully acceptable in our stressful world. 

Over this past century, as technology advanced, massage took a backseat to modern medicine and prescribed drugs. However, as we are finding out, side effects of drugs are often worse than the original symptoms. And more and more, people are wanting better alternatives. So we've seen the pendulum swing the other way as the medical world has begun to see the benefits of massage a therapeutic intervention.

There are many styles of massage that you can choose from. Here are some of the more popular ones:

• Swedish Massage Therapy is the most common massage given in the North America. It can be called Swedish massage, or just massage therapy. The therapists use long, smooth strokes with circular and kneading motions. They typically use massage oils or lotions. This style of massage can be very relaxing. If you are new to massage therapy, this one will introduce you to it in a gentle way.
• Aromatherapy massage is typically Swedish massage combined with scented plant oils. The oils are used for specific issues and needs and the therapist will pick the most appropriate oils for your particular situation. The therapist may select oil that is invigorating or relaxing. The most common oil used is probably oil of lavender. Aromatherapy is especially helpful in reducing stress and helping with emotional problems.
• Hot stone massage is another form of therapeutic massage and is used to warm and loosen tight muscles. The heated, smooth stones are placed on certain spots on the body. The stones are warm and comforting. They are also used for the massage itself. The therapist uses them as tools throughout the massage and uses them to apply pressure to relieve muscle tension.
• Deep tissue massages are massages that specifically target deeper muscles and the surrounding soft tissue. The therapist uses slower strokes that are designed to stretch out the fascia or connective tissue that surrounds the muscles. It is used for muscles that are chronically tight, repetitive motions injuries, and helping the body recover from other injuries.
• Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage. It is often referred to as acupuncture without needles. The Shiatsu therapists presses on various acupressure points, often using their thumbs. The pressure is applied for two to eight seconds. This method is used to increase energy flow and help the body regain its natural balance. These pressure points are firm but leave no soreness. Thai massage is similar to Shiatsu but also includes stretching and compressions. You are moved and stretched by the therapist and helps reduce stress and improve the range of motion in the client’s body.
• Many pregnant women are now using pregnancy massage to reduce stress, relieve backaches and other minor pains and reduce stress and tension during the pregnancy. Each massage is customized to fit the client’s needs. Massage by a trained therapist may reduce swelling. They will be trained in ways to support a pregnant woman’s body during the massage and know how to tailor the massage for each pregnant woman.