Massage techniques vary depending on the goal of the massage. The techniques required to achieve a soothing relief through massage is largely depended on what the receiver of such massage tend to achieve. Massage can be therapeutic and as well can be relaxing. These two goal of massage tend to dictate the technique required or used in such massage. For the purpose, I have complied the top 10 massage techniques to achieve a soothing relief and promote proper blood circulation through massage.
A good massage is truly a treat and offers many health benefits. There are various types of massage which involves working and acting on the body with pressure or moving, tension, motion, or vibration, done manually or with mechanical aids. Massage can be applied with the hands, fingers, elbow, knees, forearm, feet, or a massage device. Massage can promote relaxation.
Contents at a Glance
Top 10 Massage Techniques
Swedish massage Therapy
This is also known as Swedish massage or simply massages therapy. The aim of this massage is to ease the entire body into a state of pleasure. It is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. This massage technique is achieved through the use of long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements with a lubricated oil or lotion. The strokes are usually done in the direction of blood towards the heart. Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing
Aromatherapy Massage Technique
Aromatherapy massage therapy is achieved with the addition of one or more aromatic plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. One can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, and balancing, etc. The most common essential oil used in aromatherapy massage is Lavender. Different fragrances could be used on a per bases treatment. For instance: Lavender is commonly used for treating depression, Chamomile is used for sleeping disorders. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suitable to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.
Shiatsu massage
This is also known as Acupressure. It is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a regular order. Therapists apply pressure with the thumbs, fingers and palms to specific areas of the clients body that is determines before the session. Each point is held for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards. It is common to have a mixture of tapping, squeezing, and rubbing preformed during this type of massage. This combination is done to try to unblock energy blockages and continue a smooth flow of positive energy throughout the body.
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Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage. This type of massage is especially helpful for people with chronically tense or tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, or lower back.
Thai Massage Technique
Thai massage is one of the top 10 massage techniques which has a lot of similarities with Shiatsu. Thai massage affiliates the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches. This massage is more energizing and rigorous than traditional massages. During the massage, the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures, almost like yoga. This is done to get the blood flowing into tough areas. This massage technique reduces stress, improves flexibility and range of motion.
Hot Stone Massage Technique
This massage is achieved by placing heated-smooth stones on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The rigidity of the stone allows the therapist to address specific area problems with deeper pressure. The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth from the hot water is comforting and relaxing.
Reflexology
Reflexology is also known as foot massage. This massage techniques involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. This technique is a mixture of massaging, squeezing, pushing and pulling. Reflexology is perfect for athletes and people who stand on their feet all day. The idea of this type of massage is that the foot is connected to every part of the human body. By applying certain pressure to different areas in the foot, it will help health and relaxation throughout the body as a whole.
Champissage Massage
The focal points of Champissage massage are the neck, face, arms, eyes, scalp and ears. This form of massage has been practiced in India for over 1000 years with slight changes that are unique to different people. Champissage is beneficial to the body and helps you relax while rejuvenating you.
Trigger Point Massage
Trigger point massage, also known as Myopoint therapy is used on muscles that are constrained or tight in a certain area and are affecting the muscles around it. This type of massage is specifically designed to relieve the tension and pain in the isolated area through releasing energizing endorphins and eliminating toxins in the muscle. This type of massage is known to have immediate effects on reduction of pain in that specified tense area. A lot of times this work is incorporated in with other types of massage.
Muscle Energy Technique
Muscle Energy Technique is a massage that is based on the principle of a theory that explains that muscles are on one side of a joint will always relax to accommodate the contraction of muscles on the other side of that joint when indirect pressure is applied. This principle is called reciprocal inhibition. This would be a good massage for athletes for preventative measures to guard against any future injuries. The procedure for this massage is to contract muscles for a short 5 seconds against an anti-force provided by a therapist. It may not be popular but it definately one of the top 10 massage techniques. This massage helps improve range of motion.
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