Massage Guide - Massage Types

There are many massage styles that may be different one from the other and the best styles for the one who receives massage may vary from one to other and from time to time for the same person.

Here is a list of massage styles:

Swedish Massage

A classic full body massage that incorporates long gliding movements to promote relaxation, stimulates blood and lymphatic circulation and relieves tension and stress. This is the most popular form of massage being practiced today.

Sports Massage

This is a vigorous massage using compression, cross friction and deep kneading techniques aimed at warming up the body for a sports activity. This massage is designed to enhance sports performance and is also known as the Pre-Event Sports Massage

Deep Tissue Techniques

This massage uses a combination of palm, thumb, elbow and arm movements that gradually penetrates below the superficial muscle layers to provide relief.

Acupressure

Acupressure works in the same way as acupuncture but without the needles. Instead acupressure uses finger pressure applied to energy points known as chi, which is also the vital energy force that flows throughout the body. Acupressure can also be done to oneself to alleviate a variety of conditions such as headache and nausea.

Trigger Point Therapy

Pioneered by Janet Travell, M.D., trigger point therapy are hypersensitive areas that radiate or refer pain to other points of the body. Trigger points can be used for a variety of conditions such as headaches, tendinitis and overuse of muscles.

Alexander Technique

This technique puts emphasis on reshaping the relationship among the head, neck and shoulders through movement re-education. The patient is retrained on how to move properly, thus benefiting a variety of ailments.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy employs the use of essential oils which are absorbed into the body and into the bloodstream. Certain oils can help conditions like acne, muscle pain and stress.

Shiatsu

This is traditional Japanese style bodywork which uses finger pressure to release the body's internal vital energy flow or KI along meridians or pathways of the body. Shiatsu creates a general feeling of well being in body, spirit and mind.

Reflexology

Reflexology uses pressure points applies to feet/hands/ears to affect the entire body. This promotes relaxation and restores balance.

Pregnancy Massage

This massage is specially designed to help alleviate the discomfort of pregnancy and its changes to the body. Pregnancy massage promotes relaxation to the expectant mother.