Styles of Massage Therapy
- Swedish Massage- most common form of massage therapy in the Unites States. Using long strokes to stretch the muscles, along with kneading and smooth circular movements, this is the massage to try if you have never had one before. It is relaxing and very gentle and done with either massage lotion or massage oil.
- Aromatherapy Massage- the addition of essentials oils to your favorite massage style. By adding these aromatic oils, specific needs are addressed whether it is for relaxation, revitalization and energy or stress relief. Juniper and Lavender are the most popular scents.
- Deep Tissue Massage- the use of slower stroking and friction technique is commonly used for pain or chronic tension in the muscles. For those who have postural problems, who are recovering from an injury or are athletic (popular around Marathon Season), the Deep Tissue massage is ideal in relieving sore muscles. Not usually recommended for first timers because muscles do tend to get sore if you are not accustomed to this style, although elements of Deep Tissue massage are combined with softer styles allowing more concentration on areas with severe tension.
- Shiatsu Massage- a Japanese style with a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians using localized finger pressure that is held for two to eight seconds aiding the body in regaining balance and distributing the flow of energy throughout. There is usually no soreness after Shiatsu, and is a pleasant surprise for first timers.
- Reiki Massage- this is a style that focuses more on the emotional state of the receiver. It is a healing system with light hand placements which channel energy. It is used to achieve spiritual focus, to treat emotional or mental distress as well as chronic and acute physical problems. Reiki also allows for the acceleration in treating many traumas and provides relief from many ailments such as arthritis or any other conditions of pain all which greatly benefit from improved energy flow.
- Prenatal Massage- Therapists are specifically trained in the proper positions the mother’s body is to be handled. It is a customized massage with a modification of various techniques to carefully relieve tension of sore muscles. Reduces swelling, and alleviates stress and anxiety for mothers-to-be.
- Reflexology- Not just any old foot massage, reflexology focuses on specific pressure points in the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is a popular addition to the other styles and an excellent way to finish off your massage. Great for those who are on their feet all day or women who need relief from prancing around in Manolo’s all day!
- Sports Massage- A specific massage that caters to the needs of the sports extraordinaire. The focus is on enhancing athletic performance as well as to treat injury and prevent it. Sports massage facilitates stretching which loosens the muscles and promotes flexibility.
- Scalp Massage- Who would have thought that a head massage would be enjoyablae and beneficial and the same time? Not only is it relaxing and makes you wants to take a nap right after, but it stimulates blood flow which in return feeds the hair follicles. Scalp massage also promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss at the same time. A quick 15 minutes on your lunch break could help you tremendously and relive you from the stress of going back to work for another few hours.
- Medical Massage- According to an article written by Certified Senior Instructor, Boris Prilutsky - "... Medical Massage has been clinically and scientifically shown to bring about a vasodilartory effect that significantly reduces cardiac work." It is helpful to individuals who suffer from an assortment of health conditions, including repetitive motion injuries, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, muscle spasms, neuromuscular conditions, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, chronic headaches, whiplash, rotator cuff injuries, and soft-tissue injuries as well. Additionally, medical massage increases blood supply to skeletal muscles and other body components and is also evidenced to stimulate the nervous system as well. Overall, medical massage is a noninvasive therapy that produces beneficial health results to those experiencing numerous health-related illnesses and injuries.
