Types of Massage

Most people are unaware of just how many different types of massage there are.

Relaxation Massage

This is the most basic type of massage. Relaxation massage improves circulation and provides for general relaxation through the use of smooth, flowing handwork. This can help improve mood and release tension in times of great stress.

Aromatherapy Massage

This massage style is a combination of the therapeutic technique Aromatherapy with relaxation massage, further aiding the massage’s ability to induce relaxation, calm, and emotional well being.

Massage in the Workplace

As companies have realized that their employees’ emotional health affects the quality of their work, massage in the workplace has become a trend as companies seek to increase productivity. Stress, anxiety, and depression cost American corporations millions of dollars a year in lost man-hours. Many companies now have massage therapists on-site to provide relief and energy for their employees during the workday.

Reiki Massage

Reiki is an energy-based therapeutic system involving multiple techniques. The term Reiki means “universal life-force energy,” and Reiki-style massage involves resting the hands on the body in a certain pattern without applying pressure. It is believed that the energy of the healer helps create a sense of relaxation and well-being.

Rolfing

Rolfing seeks to align the segments of the body by manipulating the fascia and connective tissue. Fascia is a thin layer or band of fibrous connective tissue enveloping, separating, or binding together muscles and organs within the body.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage helps to relieve chronic muscle tension through the use of slow strokes that provide more direct pressure and are applied across the grain of the muscles. This style of massage is more intense than a basic relaxation massage.

Self Massage

A quick and easy way to find relief through massage is to perform a self-massage. Warm some body oil and rub it into your palms. Starting with the top of your head, massage the oil into the scalp. Move down across the face, arms, legs, and abdomen using the palms. Make sure to pay attention to the soles of the feet. After you’ve finished, take a hot shower or bath to rinse the oil and enhance the relaxation of the massage. If you can’t fit in a trip to the massage therapist, this is a great way to get some of the benefits of massage.

Author: Nan Little