There is a huge array of massage therapies out there that you can try but it can be hard to decide which type to choose and which is going to be most beneficial to you.
The first question you have to ask yourself is: What do I want from this massage? You could be in need of a little bit of pampering and relaxation; you could have muscle tightness on your neck, shoulder or back and needed them to be relieved. Some massage therapies even offer emotional release so you may really need to consider if this is what you want.
All massage therapies promote blood flow and circulation throughout the body and bring about physical and psychological healing by manipulating the connective and soft tissues of the body. Pressure used in massaging ranges from gentle to deep - depending on your preference; and a therapist uses various techniques during the massage. These may include several stroking and gliding movements, kneading, and some percussive or tapping motions. You may be asked by your therapist to coordinate your breathing with some of the strokes to encourage the release of the tensions, both physical and emotional.
Different Types of Massage
The following is an overview of what you can expect from various types of massages.
For relaxation, try the following massages:
- Swedish massage
- connective tissue massage
- deep tissue massage
- hot stone therapy
- pregnancy massage
- Thai Massage
- Hawaiian massage
In fact, most people describe the sense of relaxation following any form of massage. Essential oils are sometimes being used and have a relaxing and stress-relieving effects. Alternatively you could ask your therapist for these types of massages to have the opposite effect - to revitalise and invigorate. The therapist may change the oils and types of strokes to have this desired effect.
For emotional healing and release, the following massages are recommended:
- Hawaiian massage
- lomi lomi massage
- kahuna massage
These can help connect the mind, body, and spirit. Deep tissue massage can also help access deeply the deeply held tensions and emotional issues that are stored within the body. Sometimes, by simply placing the hands on a person’s body will have a deeply healing and nurturing effect.
For injuries, you can try the following massages
- remedial massage
- sports massage
- connective tissue massage
- deep tissue massage
Sports massage can be quite vigorous and can be used to speed up the recovery time after an injury. All these massage therapies will help increase circulation, relieve muscle tension, ease muscle imbalances, and promote flexibility.
Chinese massage is another type you can consider. It works with the body’s energy, also known as qi, and also with the mental body. It focuses on points where the qi gathers and can become stagnant. Massage techniques may activate and regulate the qi and blood and to promote relaxation.
It is important to remember all the types that are not suitable when you are considering getting a massage during pregnancy. First, find a therapy who has specific training and experience in pre-natal massage. Pregnant women often have specific muscle tensions and pains caused by carrying extra weight and the shift in the centre of gravity. The woman needs to lie on her side, or on a table specifically designed for pregnant women so they can lie on their belly.
By getting a massage, it is a wonderful way of acknowledging and honouring your body, and you are sure to greatly benefit from whatever type of massage you choose.
Locate a massage therapist in your local area.
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