Swedish Massage Therapy
This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy.
If you want to experience long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on the upper layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. You won’t be experiencing painful strokes that are associated with other techniques. It is because of this very nature that it is the best one to try first if you hadn’t experienced going to a massage salon regularly before. You will appreciate hard massage later if you are already accustomed to the soft and smooth movements of the Swedish technique.
Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage is simply massage therapy that makes use one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to cater to very specific needs and effects desired. The different types of oils will produce different effects on the client. The experienced massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, and generally alleviates psychological tension. It is up to the therapist to mix and choose the best blend of oils depending on the request and the needs of the client. You should try using lavender oil first because it is the most relaxing and none aggravating type of scent. The scent of these oils is best suited to stress problems with an emotional component. It eliminates the inner subconscious tension and allows the therapist to work on the muscles as well.
Hot Stone Massage
Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body. The principle behind this is to create energy and distribute it towards its proper places. Tight muscles are loosened up and warmed by the use of the stones. There is also the added advantage of not having to experience hard massage. The heat itself is already comforting to the client. The stones can be used as tools also to create the pressure necessary to relax the client. It helps create a sensation conducive to sleep. Clients having problems with their bodies can relax slowly even if the therapist hasn’t touched them yet by the use of these stones.
Deep Tissue Massage
If you want to target deeper layers of muscles, it is classified as a deep massage. It is a bit painful for those that are not used to it but very soothing actually to those who needs it most. The technique depends on slower strokes or friction techniques to get to the deeper layers of the tissue. This type of massage is best for those that are suffering from certain muscle strain and sports injuries. It is recommended that no one should engage in strenuous exercises for a few days after they had a deep tissue massage. This is the best massage actually for those with serious stress conditions.
Shiatsu
If you want a delight to experience, you should try shiatsu. It involves localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on certain body points that leaves the client feeling refreshed. There is no feeling of pain or soreness several days afterward. You will be surprised that the firm pressure exerted didn’t create any after effects. The heaviness that you feel will gradually lift up and then disappear altogether. In the duration of the massage however, you will enjoy that delicious feeling of whittling down your stress.
Massage techniques