• HerbSpace
  • Wed,02 2022

10 Types of Massages - Decoded

Looking for a massage but don’t know which one to choose? Lets decode massages for you..

Swedish Massage

The most well-known massage that is used to relax the body and increase blood circulation. The masseur uses kneading, rubbing, long, flowing strokes in the direction of the heart, deep circular motions, vibration, tapping and even stretching and bending of the joints. The idea is to stimulate your soft tissues without going very deep. The gentlest of massages that will leave you feeling upbeat and relaxed. Go for this one if you are new to massage or are sensitive to touch.

Deep Tissue Massage

This one uses more pressure and reaches deeper into your muscles and tendons. The masseur works on the network of connective tissues that surround, support and inhabit muscles, bones, organs and nerves to release pain and stiffness. Be prepared for some discomfort if you are opting for this one, as it is not the gentlest.

Trigger Point Massage

Use this one for a specific area where stiffness or knots have formed. Knots can be painful with soreness and pain radiating to the surrounding areas. These are much more intensive and uses techniques of both Swedish and Deep Tissue massage. This one is used by people who suffer from chronic pain.

Pre-natal Massage

This is exclusively for our lovely mothers-to-be. Making your pregnancy a little easier by easing the pain in you lower back, legs or hips (the areas most stressed out by your bundle of joy), this one helps with swelling, regulates hormones and reduces the risk of premature birth.

Sports Massage

For the athletes in you, budding or pro, this one is for you. You can get it done before a good game or after one. These massages are great to get blood flow going to warm your body to prevent injuries and improve recovery times. It can definitely help to reduce post-workout sore muscles and injury from repetitive muscle use.

Hot Stone Massage

The exotic massage uses basalt or a type of volcanic rock that can hold heat. The hot stones are placed on your body by the masseur to relax sore muscles, ease muscular tension and increase blood circulation. Sometimes, the masseur will use cold stones.

Aromatherapy Massage

Add a component of emotional healing to your massage with this one. Ancient cultures used aromatherapy massages to rejuvenate their bodies, mind and spirit. Using essential oils diluted in base oils, these massages combine techniques of Swedish, Deep Tissue or any other, to relax the muscles and reduce stress and anxiety. Each oil has different benefits so do speak with the masseur on which one is best for you. Keep in mind that not all essential oils are safe to be used during pregnancy. So, if you are thinking of one, ensure that the oils used are suitable for pregnancy.

Reflexology Massage

Reflexology Massage is based on the traditional Chinese principle that certain parts of your hands, feet and ears are connected to other organs in your body. In simple terms, say, we give pressure on a certain point on your feet, it will help stimulate a particular organ.

Shiatsu Massage

Based on the principles of Acupressure, this one is a traditional Japanese body massage that uses fingers, thumbs, palms and sometimes elbows to apply relatively deep pressure to specific areas in order to reduce muscular tension and improve blood circulation. Pulsing or rhythmic pressure is used.

Thai Massage

If you are up for some activity, this ones for you. The masseur will take you through a series of yoga-like postures which will include stretching and twisting. The masseur will apply pressure on specific areas with their hand, elbows or even feet, to stimulate those areas. This one helps in increasing joint mobility, reduce back pain and general muscular stiffness.

Now that you know the different types of massage, choose the one that is best for you and enter the world of bliss!