Imagine getting a relaxing full body massage after a long day at work. Doesn’t it sound alluring? It definitely does. A massage is the ultimate form of relaxation that is instrumental in relaxing both your mind and the body. Apart from relaxing the body holistically, body massages are very beneficial in terms of leading a healthy lifestyle. It stimulates blood flow, strengthens muscles, helps in attaining flexibility, the list is indeed long. This is the reason why massage therapy is something which is in high demand and it is something that you should consider as a part of your lifestyle.
A good massage therapy is perhaps the best investment that you could make for yourself. However, there are different types of body massages and not every kind of massage is suitable for everyone. For example, if you are someone who has a sedentary lifestyle and you suffer from back pain, a deep tissue massage would be just what you need. However, if you have an acute pain due to a recent injury, deep tissue massage will increase the impact of the injury, hence the pain. Therefore, it is very important to know what kind of massage suits you before you actually consider massage therapy.
There are different types of body massages with their own set of generic and unique benefits. If this concept is something unfamiliar, you have come to the right place. Broadly we know that massage is the practice of rubbing and kneading the body. A massage therapist applies strokes and pressure to the muscles and joints of your body to ease tension, simulate blood flow and relaxation. However, based on the techniques they are distinguished from one another.
Let Us Consider Broadly, The Different Types Of Body Massages and Their Benefits.
1) Swedish massage
Swedish massage is a very gentle form of massage which involves long flowing strokes, deep circular motions, tapping and vibrations, passive joint movement techniques and gentle kneading. This is a massage which is for people who desire a gentle touch. It is a very subtle yet powerful form of relaxation.
It helps in releasing tension, promotes soothing sensation and it is also beneficial after injuries when an individual cannot absorb a lot of pressure. It is also good for people who are sensitive and new to massage therapy. It usually lasts for 60 to 90 minutes, it is a very gentle and soothing form of massage.
2) Deep tissue massage
Deep tissue massage involves more pressure even though some of the applied techniques are similar to the Swedish massage. Sometimes these two massages are performed hand in hand. A deep tissue massage lasts for 60 to 90 minutes. The massage therapist will be using strokes similar to the Swedish massage but it involves deep finger pressure to relieve tension from the deepest layers of your muscles.
It is extremely beneficial in removing soreness, tightness, chronic muscle pain, post injury treatment and imbalance. In fact, deep tissue massage is highly recommended to people who have a highly active lifestyle, for example the athletes or people who train heavily.
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3) Hot stone massage
Hot stone massage is similar to the massages mentioned previously. However, in this case, instead of using hands the massage therapist uses heated stones. Sometimes the stones are used in combination with certain hand movements. It depends upon the therapist and the client.
Usually this massage lasts for 90 minutes. This is beneficial in terms of removing any form of consistent pain in the body and promoting relaxation.
4) Aromatherapy Massage
This is a form of massage that uses soft and gentle pressure along with essential oils rich in fragrance. In this case the massage therapist decides the essential oils which are to be used based on your body and preferences. One can even choose if they have any preference for any oil.
Aromatherapy is for people who need more of an emotional healing or an emotional form of relaxation rather than a hardcore physiological one. It is very beneficial in terms of boosting your emotional mood, reducing the impact of stress, anxiety or depression. It promotes good mental health and alleviates pain that has its cause in degeneration of an individual’s mental health.
5) Sports Massage
Sports massage is a combination of deep tissue, Swedish massage and trigger point massage. It is beneficial if one uses the same body part repeatedly. Further, it helps prevent injuries. It is ideal for people who are full time athletes. It is a combination of deep and soothing strokes.
It helps in increasing flexibility, improving athletic performances and reducing the impact of physiological and psychological stress.
6) Reflexology
Reflexology is a technique that works on the pressure points to rid the body of a specific problem. Reflexology may involve strict movements and sometimes it could be slightly painful depending on the nature of it chosen, but it comes up with long term and lasting benefits.
It is beneficial in terms of reducing pain, fatigue and promoting good circulation. It also helps in promoting a healthy sleep pattern and reducing psychological stress.
7) Shiatsu Massage
The following form of body massage has its origin in Japan. In this massage, an individual remains fully clothed. It is similar to Reflexology in terms of pressure points and health benefits.
8) Thai Massage
Thai massage is a more active form of massage which involves a combination of pressure as well as yogic stretching. This is something specifically meant for people who want to enhance their activity and energy levels.
Broadly, these are the categories of massages and their benefits. There are several subcategories of massages such as prenatal massages, massages focussed on particular trigger points, lymphatic massages. With the dynamic patterns of lifestyles there are new categories of massages. This is because relaxation is a combination of science and creativity. Therefore, massage therapists are innovating every single day to furnish their client with a new form of relaxation.
Therefore, based on your bodily needs it is very important to choose the right kind of massage.