By Audrey Sellers
When life feels especially stressful or busy, make room in your schedule for a massage. Some time on the table or in a chair can do wonders for your physical and mental health, including reducing pain, improving mood, and ushering in a feeling of pure relaxation. The art of massage can be traced back to 3000 B.C., and it’s a practice that still helps people unwind and relax today.
If you don’t get massages often, you might wonder which kind is best for you. We’re delving into some of the most popular types of massages and the benefits each one can provide. Get ready to say “ahh.”
Swedish massage
One of the most well-known types of massages, this technique uses kneading, circular movements, and long, flowing strokes to promote relaxation. Book a Swedish massage if you want to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, or lower your overall stress. If you’re new to massage therapy, this is also a great introductory technique.
Hot stone massage
The combination of heat and massage therapy can make your aches and pains melt away. This technique involves warm, smooth stones gliding over specific points of the body to improve blood flow, soothe sore muscles, and enhance relaxation.
Deep tissue massage
If you’re dealing with chronic pain or stubborn knots, this massage technique can provide targeted relief. Therapists use firm pressure to reach deeper layers of connective tissue and muscle, which can loosen kinks and promote long-term relief.
Couples massage
Has it been a minute since you’ve enjoyed some relaxation with your significant other? Book a couples massage and let your worries go for a while. You’ll relax in separate beds and receive massage therapy side by side. This shared experience can help you both feel rejuvenated and reconnected.
Sports massage
If you’re a runner, pickleball enthusiast, or just live an active lifestyle, a sports massage can relax aching muscles, improve circulation, and prevent (or treat) sports-related injuries. This technique involves stretching, compression, and deep tissue work to improve flexibility and alleviate muscle soreness.
Shiatsu massage
The term “shiatsu” literally means “finger pressure” in Japanese, though therapists may also use palms and elbows in a session. It’s a gentle technique that relieves tension, improves circulation, and lifts your mood. This type of massage can also provide relief from issues like arthritis, migraines, and sleep disorders.
THAI massage
Sometimes called “lazy man’s yoga,” this technique focuses on stretching and yoga poses to help reduce stress, soothe back pain, and increase flexibility. You simply lie down and allow your massage therapist to put your body in various yoga poses. It’s a centuries-old practice that brings all the relaxation of a yoga class without any of the work.
Whether you want to relieve muscle tension, heal injuries, or boost your mood, massage therapy is a great way to restore harmony to your body and mind.
Maximize Your Massage Experience
To get the most out of your massage, be sure to communicate any medical conditions or preferences to your therapist. Some other tips include:
- Arrive a few minutes early. If you show up late and frenzied, it will take longer to relax. Give your
self time to breathe and ease into the session. - Avoid a big meal beforehand. You don’t want to arrive with a full belly, but you also shouldn’t be hungry. It’s best to eat a light meal or have a snack like a handful of almonds or a banana before your massage.
- Hydrate. Drink plenty of water before and after your massage. Water helps your kidneys and liver flush out toxins that are released during the massage.
- Disrobe to your comfort level. Fully undressing can help your massage therapist perform the treatment, but it’s up to you how much you take off. Keep in mind that only the part of the body being worked on will be uncovered.
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