Types of massage: swedish, deep tissue, foot, couples, sports massage, therapeutic, shiatsu lymphatic drainage, medical massage

Massage is one of the oldest and most popular forms of therapy since time immemorial. The word “massage” has Greek origin (“masso”- to touch). Massage is a healing method, where dose mechanical stimulation applied to the body using special manual techniques. Massage can be made on the whole body (general) or on certain parts of the body (local or zonal massage).

There are three massage methods, massage techniques – made with hands (manual), using massage devices and instrumental. Massage has wonderful health benefits. It relieves stress and pain, relaxes muscles, strengthens the immune system, lowers blood pressure, reduces cellulite, etc. Massage sessions usually last from 15 to 90 minutes. The price of massage depends on location and reputation of the spa.

Types of massage

There are more than 150 different types of massage. The most popular are Swedish massage, aromatherapy massage, Shiatsu and Thai massage, hot stone and pregnancy massage. The most common is Swedish massage. It is rather gentle and relaxing. This type of massage brings blood and, of course, energy to the top layers of your skin. Oil or lotion is applied to the skin. This type of massage is also known as “classical massage”. Swedish massage combines long and short strokes. Swedish massage is great in increasing the level of oxygen.

Shiatsu massage

Shiatsu massage has Japanese origin. It is performed without any oils or lotions by pushing on certain points on your body. Every point is held for several seconds to release stress and promote good energy. Sometimes it is called finger pressure massage. The massage is usually done on the floor or low massage table. Shiatsu massage benefits are innumerable. It helps to get rid of insomnia and tiredness, headaches, back and arthritis pain, and even depression.

The other popular type of massage is Deep Tissue massage. This massage is focused on tendons and muscles. Usually it leaves you slightly pain for the next day. The pressure is concentrated on areas of pain or tension, besides the pressure is deeper than in classic massage. The therapist also uses elbows and forearms. Deep Tissue massage is concentrated on postural pains, chronicle pain and spasms.

Sports massage

Sports massage is for people who are connected with physical activities. It is focused on relaxing and treating injury. It is a combination of Shiatsu massage and Swedish massage. But the strokes are a bit faster than in Swedish massage technique. Sport massage helps athletes before, during and after sport activities.

The benefits of foot massage or reflexology are limitless. Foot massage encourages relaxation of the whole body and healing. During foot massage the therapist applies to certain areas on feet which correspond to organs and other parts of your body. The massage improves blood circulation, heightens immunity and relieves stress. The effect of foot massage is connected with the frequency of your massage sessions - the more you go, the healthier you are.

Lymphatic massage

Lymphatic massage or lymph drainage massage is a very gentle type of massage. It is used to promote lymph flow in the body. Lymphatic massage is focused mostly on face, neck, underarm region. This massage can be done independently, or in compound with Deep Tissue massage or Swedish massage. Lymphatic massage has positive effect on the skin and brings energy. Besides it helps to cope with different types of pain, as it stimulates innate healing mechanisms. As with every type of massage, it’s important to drink a lot of water after a lymphatic drainage massage to get rid of released toxins.

Therapeutic massage

Therapeutic massage is used to help to rid of some chronic diseases. It can be done in hospital, clinic or a private practice. The first and the main therapeutic benefit is that it may help to get rid of pain. Pregnant women, people who suffer from headaches, migraines can benefit greatly from therapeutic massage. In addition it strengthens the immune system, promotes deeper breathing. It is very important to choose the experienced therapist. Therapeutic massage is a great alternative medicine, which can help to get relief from many chronic health problems.

Medical massage

Medical massage deserves special attention. This type of Western type of massage may be prescribed by a physician. Medical massage relieves pressure on muscles and joints. This type of massage is usually used in combination with other treatment. It is wise to find the good professional who is specialized exactly in the form of massage you want to receive.

Couples massage

Couples massage is getting more and more popularity nowadays. Many people enjoy massage more when they are with someone who they love or trust. Couples massage is not only for lovers, it can be just two friends or relatives. Swedish massage is more often used for couples, because of its relaxation effect. It’s funny to talk during the session or just feel the presence of your partner and keep silence. Relaxing music and aromatic lotions are used to support the atmosphere. But not every spa offer couples massage.