by Marcela De Vivo
Wondering what type of massage to get? Regardless of whether you are a massage newbie or a bodywork connoisseur, picking a massage from the increasingly lengthy menu of spa services can be daunting. From de-stressing to increasing flexibility, many spas offer a plethora of massage options with a variety of benefits to address any issue you wish.
Here’s a list of situations in which you would seek out the healing touch of bodywork and the type of massage that can help alleviate your specific condition:
If you’re feeling tense, then you should try a Swedish Massage:
The most recognizable and popular types of bodywork, Swedish massage is what most think of when discussing “massage.” Using long, gentle strokes, with medium to moderate pressure, and circular, kneading motions, Swedish massage can improve circulation and reduce stress-related tension. Some studies that this type of massage has a mild healing effect related to certain chronic stress-related illnesses.
If you have sore muscles or are recovering from an injury, then you should try Deep-Tissue Massage:
Deep tissue massage uses much more pressure than the traditional Swedish massage, and targets the deep layers of muscle and muscle attachments. Ideal for tight or sore muscles, as a result of repetitive use injury, poor posture or recovery from an injury, deep tissue massage can feel slightly painful as the masseuse breaks down adhesions to relieve pain and restore movement.
This type of massage usually is used to relieve some particular ailment, rather than for relaxation. It is believed that toxins are released during deep tissue massage, which can bring on flu-like symptoms and some soreness the next day.
If you aren’t afraid of a little pain for a lot of gain, then you should try Thai Massage:
Thai massage is sometimes called “the lazy man’s yoga.” Unlike other forms of massage, you do not lay passively as your therapist kneads and strokes your body. In Thai massage, the masseuse works your body through a series of stretches, sometimes utilizing elbows and knees to push you deeper into a stretch.
While Thai massage is often considered painful and not necessarily relaxing during the session, the results are worth the “work out.” Not only will you feel more vigor, but it helps improve flexibility (over time) and range of motion. It can also help improve posture.
If you’re feeling stressed, then you should try Aromatherapy Massage:
Aromatherapy is a noted, effective stress-buster. Combined with massage, aromatherapy can reduce stress as well as tension throughout the body, and improve your overall mood.
Different scents have different healing qualities—some can help rejuvenate, others relax, and yet others to help balance. To relieve stress, cardamom, chamomile and lavender have been particularly helpful with people experiencing anxiety and stress.
Once you’ve chosen what scent you want, the oil is either slowly released throughout the room, or applied (with a base oil) to pressure points on your body through massage.
If you don’t like being touched, then try Reiki Massage:
A Japanese technique developed for stress reduction and relaxation, Reiki is a bodywork treatment that does not require extensive contact between the masseuse and the person receiving the treatment. Reiki uses energy and visualization to assist in the healing therapy.
The masseuse will place their hands on or over key points in the body, and channel their energy (via meditative state and visualization) into the client. Reiki balances the energy in problem areas, taking into account the body, aura and emotional state, to improve overall well-being. This treatment modality has been found to help reduce pain that stems from a physical ailment or a psychosomatic concern.
Whereas once there were only one or two massage options on the spa menu, these days, you can find practices from around the world at any New York, LA, or Miami Spa—or at your local massage practice. Refer to this list before the next time you visit your favorite spa, to find the treatment that best suits you.
Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer, yoga enthusiast and mother of three. In addition to meditating and practising yoga each day, she personally enjoys Reiki massage as another way to relieve stress and tension. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter for more health-related tips.
"Seize the day, Caper Diem"
"Seize the day, Caper Diem"
