What are the different types of massage therapy?
Massage is more than one type of massage, and most of us are familiar with the image of a traditional massage table and oils. There are many variations and massage options
These different variations and methods are called modalities. Modalities have been developed to target specific problems or areas of concerns to get tailored results. We won’t list all the modalities here because there are so many, but below you’ll find massage options available at our location and you can find one to fit your personal needs.
Aromatherapy massage incorporates essential oils into the massage experience. The use of essential oils dates back to ancient Egypt, where they often gave scented massages and aromatic baths. Combining these two elements together promotes relaxation and may invigorate or energize you, depending on the types of essential oils you or your massage therapist chooses. We will consult with you first to learn which kinds of essential oils you prefer and we will discuss your options with you.
Deep tissue massage focuses on relieving extreme muscle tension. It’s especially effective if you have or chronic muscle pain and tension, musculoskeletal disorders or postural problems. Our Massage therapists will often use their knuckles, hands, and elbows to really dig in. Avoid deep tissue massage if you have inflamed joints or other ailments, because the vigorous nature of the massage can aggravate your condition.
Hot stone massage provides a special massage that stands out from the rest. The massage therapist puts hot stones on your body and often uses them to give the massage. This allows the therapist to go deeper while still using lighter pressure. And the correct level of heat is a great way to loosen muscle tension and increase your levels of relaxation.
Reflexology became popular in the United States around the 1930s. The practice that involves acupressure applied to the hands and feet. These areas are believed to correspond to different parts of the body and the massage restores the flow of body energy. Our bodies have 12 vital organs exist from the tops of our heads down to our feet. Our trained and licensed massage therapists will apply pressure with their hands, unblocking those channels to help restore proper health and organ function. If you enjoy foot massages, this is the one for you.
Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy that combines treatment for emotional, physiological, and spiritual wellbeing. For centuries, Chinese massage practitioners paired the shiatsu massage with herbalism and acupuncture to help relieve the pain of their clients. Since then, shiatsu has become more of a practice of its own, with about half a dozen variations.
The Swedish massage is the most commonly known massage. If you’ve gotten a massage before, chances are high you experienced something similar to a Swedish Massage. A licensed massage therapist usually applies kneading, stroking, and friction to loosen muscular tension and increase your blood circulation. The therapist uses massage oil to ease the hand strokes and movements. This massage takes place on a massage table and usually lasts between 30-60 minutes.
A four-hand massage is a massage therapy session where two masseuses work together on a single massage client. The pleasure of a traditional Swedish massage is doubled. Together the two masseuses get to work relieving your knots, kinks and stresses with simultaneous, mirrored movements. During a typical 4 hand massage, the massage therapists work together use relaxing, slow movements along with harder, warmer and deeper movements to target specific areas around the body. It is an incredible experience and is superior to other massage types.