When you think of a massage, you usually envision soothing music, aromatic oils, and dim lighting. You may believe that massages are entirely indulgent and serve no other purpose than to relax.
However, massages are an effective treatment for various bodily needs, and multiple methods are employed based on the conditions being treated.
Read on to learn about the top ten types of massage and when you may need one.
1. Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is likely the most well-known style of massage, making it an excellent option for first-timers. Swedish massage is characterised by using lengthy strokes, kneading, and gliding with light to hard pressure to achieve total body relaxation.
Schedule a Swedish massage if you’re only experimenting with a massage treatment, want to decrease stress, and have no pressing concerns.
2. Deep Tissue Massage
Above and beyond a Swedish massage, the deep tissue massage employs more pressure and aims to release toxins from your muscles and circulation. Slow strokes and deep finger pressure penetrate the lowest levels of muscle and tissue to treat chronic pain caused by muscular soreness, muscle tension, trigger points, or injury.
If you like low to moderate pressure during massages, a deep tissue massage may be too powerful for you.
3. Aromatherapy Bodywork
If you like essential oils, you will enjoy an aromatherapy massage. So that your skin can absorb the essential oils, your massage therapist will use an essential oil diffuser and diluted essential oils on their hands.
A massage with aromatherapy can improve your mood and relieve your tension. Your massage therapist can recommend oils based on how you’re feeling, but be sure to inform them of your preferences and any allergens.
During a hot stone massage, the therapist utilises heated volcanic stones to improve blood flow and relieve stress.
4. Hot Stone Massage
A hot stone massage is another type of mild massage used to alleviate mental and physical stress. Similar to a Swedish massage, mild pressure is applied. In addition to their hands, your therapist will also employ hot stones manufactured from volcanic rock to increase blood flow.
Generally, the stones are put around the spine, feet, face, palms, and stomach. In order to calm the skin, cold stones may be utilised towards the conclusion of the massage.
A hot stone massage can also help alleviate arthritis or fibromyalgia-related chronic pain.
5. Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu massage originated in ancient Japan and employs fingertip pressure for pain treatment. The fundamental purpose of a Shiatsu massage is to unblock your natural energy flow or Qi.
In addition to fingers, your therapist may use their knuckles and elbow to stretch your muscles, increase your circulation, and replenish your vitality.
Shiatsu massage can benefit the nervous system, digestion, sleeplessness, and headaches.
6. Sports Massage
You need not be an athlete to receive a sports massage. A sports massage is beneficial for those suffering from chronic discomfort in specific muscles due to ongoing or repetitive exercise, as well as various injuries.
If your profession demands you to walk, stand, and move heavy things for eight hours daily, you may not be an athlete, but you might still get chronic injuries in a specific region.
A sports massage in Singapore combines deep pressure and soothing strokes to restore overused regions and enhance performance.
