Massage is the physical manipulation of soft body tissues. Massage techniques are applied with fingers, hands, elbows, knees, feet, forearms, and currently through use of technological devices. Massage therapists usually apply either strong or gentle pressure to the joints and muscles to relieve pain and ease tension. For better results, a certified massage therapist manipulates the soft body tissues—connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, and skin. Over decades, massage therapy has been used to enhance wellness or manage some health conditions like pain relief, reduce stress, increase relaxation, and address depression and anxiety. With more people getting caught up in their careers and busy work schedules, massage therapy offers a source of re-energizing and re-invigorating oneself. As a result, there is a high demand for massage therapy. This need has necessitated hospitals, spas, gyms, and resorts to staff massage therapy. Likewise, many people are training to be massage therapists, and upon being certified, they can quickly and easily get jobs. Different types of massages focus on the other parts of the body. Also, the type of massage therapy to undergo depends on the massage's purpose to the body. Below is a list of several different kinds of massage therapies and how they will affect the body.
1 - Swedish Massage
It’s one of the most gentle and full body massages. It is recommended for people who have never experienced any type of massage, sensitive to touch, and have a lot of tension on their bodies. Among its benefits is that it helps release muscle knots and the perfect choice to relax during the massage completely. The massage therapists usually use a combined art of deep round motion, kneading, long flowing strokes directed to the heart, passive joint movement techniques, and vibration and tapping. Swedish massages last for one to one and half hours and are usually very affordable compared to other types of massages.
2 - Aromatherapy Massage
This is ideal for people who intend to undergo emotional healing. Aromatherapy's benefits include reducing anxiety and stress, improving your mood, relieving pain and muscle tension, and reducing depression symptoms. The essential oils must be diluted before they are applied to the skin. Massage therapists use a combination of essential oils and the application of soft, gentle pressure. The essential oils to be used are either decided by the therapist or based on the customer's personal preference. As you get a full body massage, you inhale essential oils as the skin absorbs them. At times, aromatherapy massage may focus on just your shoulders, back, and head. During the aromatherapy massage, you must be utterly naked though you can choose to remain with underwear. It is advisable not to apply this massage on people who are allergic to smells or essential oils.
3 - Hot Stone Massage
This massage is perfect for individuals who intend to relax or who suffer from muscle pain and tension. The technique used is similar to the Swedish massage, the only difference being that the massage therapist normally uses hot stones. Its benefit includes: rapidly improve blood flow, promote relaxation, reduce muscle pain and help reduce stress and anxiety. During the massage, heated stones are strategically placed on your various body parts. Occasionally, cold stones can be used in place of hot stones. You will be required to wear nothing except the underwear during the hot stone massage. It takes about 90 minutes.
4 - Sports Massage
This is recommended for athletes who are prone to repetitive muscle injuries. It helps improve a player's performance and flexibility. It is also used to reduce anxiety, pain, and extreme tension on the muscles. This massage either focuses on the whole body, or specific body parts that require attention. Depending on the customer's needs, the massage therapist alternates between soft strokes and applying deep pressure techniques. During the sports massage, you can choose to wear thin, loose clothes or stay naked. It usually lasts for 60-90 minutes.
5 - Prenatal massage
This category of massage has been associated with reducing pregnancy aches and muscle tension, anxiety, and stress. It uses the mild pressure technique and focuses on hips, legs, and lower back areas. During the massage, you can either be dressed or naked. You are required to lie on your side. It is advisable to have this massage after the first three months of your pregnancy to reduce stresses associated with carrying a child.