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Massage therapy involves the manipulation of soft body tissues with pressure, tension, motion or vibration. In addition to various parts of the body, massage can be performed with the aid of mechanical aids, oils and lotions. It is one of the oldest and simplest forms of promoting good health. There are over eighty different types of massage. Let us review some of the more common types of body massage.
Swedish Massage
During a gentle and relaxing Swedish massage, the therapist applies massage oil to the body and uses kneading, circular movements in combination with long, smooth strokes. There are six basic strokes: effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement, compression and vibration. Superficial layers of muscle are targeted.
Sports Massage
Athletes and people who work out regularly can benefit from a sports massage. The aim is to loosen muscles and increase flexibility so that athletic performance is enhanced and injuries are prevented or avoided. Therapists use facilitated stretching techniques in combination with more rapid strokes compared with a Swedish massage.
Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage therapy is performed with the aid of essential oils. Essential oils are scented plant oils and each essential oil is thought to have different effects on the body. For example, rosemary oil is cleansing and energising, chamomile, lavender and geranium are calming and rose, neroli and ylang ylang are uplifting. The theory is that essential oils are both inhaled and absorbed through the skin and have effects on blood pressure, breathing, memory, digestion and stress levels. For this reason, aromatherapy massages are particularly useful for treating emotional problems and stress-related conditions.
Hot Stone Massage
During a hot stone massage, heated smooth stones made of basalt are placed on certain points on the body, including the back, the palms of the hands or in between the toes. The therapist may also apply pressure to the stones. The aim is to warm and thereby loosen tight muscles and also to improve the circulation. This lighter form of massage is particularly suited to people suffering from muscle tension.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage which involves the use of rhythmic finger and palm pressure to acupuncture meridians. The aim is to improve the flow of energy around the body and thereby restore the body to a balanced state. Benefits include improved circulation, reduced muscular stiffness and reduced stress levels.
Touch has been shown to bring numerous health benefits to people with a variety of conditions ranging from a variety of chronic disorders, injuries and stress-related conditions. It may be worth taking some time to find the type of body massage that is best suited to your needs, if only to help you relax at the end of a long day.
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