A nice massage that caters to an ailing neck, shoulder or back muscles is nothing short of a “wonder treatment” for many. There is nothing like a good massage to help you relax, as it circulates blood and refreshes your mind, body and soul.
A massage is a superficial treatment on the surface of the body that involves finger movements on the affected areas. These are generally performed for relieving cramps, muscle stiffness and spasms. Often a good massage can relax your pains and aches and reduce stress and anxiety.
- Some of the basic massage techniques include finger movement techniques in the form of stroking, kneading, and rubbing. These methods provide physical stimulation and emotional healing.
- There are certain massage therapies meant only for some areas of the body; those massages follow particular techniques.
- Stimulating lymphatic system is possible by following certain massage procedures.
- The choice of massage oils is very essential for the massage.
There are many types of massages, well known around the world. These are generalized according to their eastern and western origin. While the eastern massages mainly deal with understanding the body energy, the western massages are concerned with anatomical understanding of the human body.
EASTERN TYPES OF MASSAGE
- Shiatsu- this is a Japanese massage where fingers create pressure following a rhythm on the acupuncture meridians. The pressure points are held for 2-8 seconds; it helps to regain body balance and enhances the energy flow.
- Acupressure- this is a beneficial bodywork which is based on the traditional Chinese meridian theory where acupuncture points are hard-pressed for stimulating the energy flow or chi.
- Polarity- this therapy is a combination of healing bodywork, dietary modifications and yoga styled exercises. Tui Na and Jin Shin Do are two other massage types.
WESTERN TYPES OF MASSAGE
- Swedish-this consists of five different strokes and their variations.
- Neuromuscular Therapy-this balances the nervous system of the body.
- Myofascial Release- relieves tension in the body tissues.
There are many more types of massage techniques apart from what has been mentioned above. Browse through our pages to learn more about the different types of massage.
Note: It is important to remember that all massages may not be suitable for everybody. So it is important to avail massage therapy under proper guidance from an expert.
To learn more about massages read through our pages on Types of Massage and Massage Oils.