There’s no doubt about it, having a massage can feel like a real luxury or a treat, although it is so much more than that. Massage can be an important part of your self-care routine to keep your body working as it should, giving you a better quality of life.
You might have considered massage in the past, only to be faced with a confusing barrage of several different options. If you went so far as to book a treatment, odds are that you made the wrong choice for you and ended up feeling like massage doesn't work. I have heard several horror stories about people being left bruised and feeling generally beaten up!
I’ll go through some different types of massage in this blog to, hopefully, give you some clarity on what is out there and what to choose. Before I do, its important to remember that when you have a massage, it’s YOUR session and it should be tailored to YOU. If the pressure is too much or it’s not enough – just say! I encourage my clients to do just that, I would rather you leave happy and come back again rather than you leaving disappointed without me ever knowing. If your therapist knows you want something different, they can put it right and you get what you want out of the session.
Choosing the right massage that aligns with your needs and preferences is so important, here are a few options that are available at Calmer Cactus, followed by some that aren’t (but ask if you want these, I’ll more than likely know someone who I can put you in touch with)
Swedish massage
Focuses on relaxation, it is performed using long flowing strokes, kneading and circular movements. This type of massage is gentler and can be great if you need a regular full body maintenance session.
Reflexology
Involves applying pressure to specific points that correspond to different organs and systems in the body. It primarily focuses on the feet, however can also be done on the hands, face and even ears.
Chair massage or Seated massage
This is a shorter, convenient massage, usually seated where you can remain fully clothed. It’s ideal for quick relaxation and especially for respite sessions in a workplace.
Deep Tissue massage
This targets deeper muscle layers to release tension and address chronic pain. It is performed using slower more forceful strokes.
Aromatherapy massage
This combines massage, usually Swedish, with essential oils to enhance relaxation and address specific issues such as insomnia.
Hot Stone massage
This is a spa favourite as it can feel very luxurious. It uses heated stones placed on specific points to promote relaxation and improve energy flow.
Thai massage
Involves a combination of stretching, compressions and yoga-type movements to improve flexibility, energy flow and overall well-being.
Shiatsu massage
Japanese in origin, it involves applying pressure with fingers, palms and elbows on specific points along the body’s meridians to balance the body’s energy flow.
Sports massage
Designed for athletes to prevent and treat injuries, focusing on specific muscle groups and addressing sports-related issues.
Prenatal / Pregnancy massage
Tailored for pregnant women, it addresses discomfort and promotes relaxation during pregnancy.
Craniosacral therapy
This uses gentle touch to manipulate the synarthrodial joints of the cranium, promoting relaxation and alleviating stress. It often involves subtle adjustments to the head, spine and sacrum.
Lymphatic drainage massage
A gentle technique that encourages the natural drainage of the lymph, promoting the removal of waste and toxins from the body. It involves light pressure and specific movements to stimulate lymph nodes and vessels to reduce any areas of swelling.
So there you have it, hopefully you feel a bit more clued up on what type of massage you might need and what to ask for. If you’re still unsure, find a massage therapist who will ask questions to build up a bit of a picture on you and your lifestyle to enable them to offer a session tailored to you and your specific needs.
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