Massage Therapy - What Are the Different Types?

There are so many different types of massages and choosing the right one can tend to be a little difficult if you are not well informed. It is important to understand your body and what it needs before deciding on the kind of massage to gain maximum benefits and advantages.

Here are some of the most popular types of massages;

A very popular therapy is the Swedish massage which has become quite a favorite among most Westerners. In this form, the masseur uses long and smooth strokes along with kneading and circular movements by the fingers and hands to apply pressure on the superficial layers of the muscle. Generally, this is done using oils or massage lotions created from exotic natural extracts and ingredients. This technique is best for those who are getting a massage for the first time and is a great way to refresh, relax and rejuvenate your body and senses.

Aromatherapy has become a branch of medicine itself and hence a massage using aroma oils or essential oils is highly recommended. Oils are selected by the therapist according to the needs of the person and are massaged into the body for a relaxing, soothing and calming experience. An aromatherapy massage is the best way to de-stress and fight fatigue and also helps you achieve an inner sense of balance and harmony. It is also highly recommended for those who have dry skin as the oils help to nourish and soften the skin and keep it glowing.

Deep tissue massages are for those who are looking for something more than a relaxing experience. Here strokes and friction is used on the muscles so that the pressure reaches the deeper layers of the muscle and connective tissue. This is specifically recommended for people recovering after injures, accidents and for those who suffer from tight muscles, cramps and postural problems. A deep tissue massage can leave you feeling sore and bruised but this only lasts for one or two days after which the positive results begin to show through.

A hot stone massage is also a popular type of therapy where smooth stones are selected and then heated to the right temperature. This is then placed on certain areas of the body warm up and loosen the tightly knotted muscles and also for proper energy flow in the body. The masseur also uses these hot stones to apply gentle pressure at various points and areas. This is an extremely comforting technique and is great for relaxation.

Everyone would have heard of a Thai massage especially a Thai foot massage or reflexology which has become so very popular these days. In a Thai session, the therapist will guide you through a series of movements which includes compressions and stretches to re-align and make your body more flexible. This is more or less like an exercise regimen and makes your body supple and toned after the session.

So go ahead and get the massage of your choice to refresh and calm your tired body and mind.