Table of contents:
- Various types of massage and their health benefits
- 1. Swedish massage
- 2. Aromatherapy massage
- 3. Hot stone massage (hot stone massage)
- 4.Deep tissue massage (deep tissue massage)
- 5. Shiatsu massage
- 6. Thai massage
- 7. Prenatal massage
- 8. Reflexology
- 9. Sports massage (sports massage)
Body pain after exercise or activity is best treated with massage. The pressure applied during the massage can help relax tense muscles so that the body becomes more relaxed. But it turns out, different types of massage have different benefits, you know!
Various types of massage and their health benefits
1. Swedish massage
For those of you who are trying a massage for the first time or are experiencing mild body aches, then this type of massage is for you. This Swedish massage therapy is carried out using long massage techniques, circular movements, vibrations, to pressing the joints and all parts of the body.
This most popular type of massage is helpful for helping to relax tense muscles and speeding up injury recovery. Before starting a massage, the therapist will usually ask you to remove your clothes first, then cover your body parts with a cloth.
2. Aromatherapy massage
Aromatherapy massage is actually another version of Swedish massage. Just as the name suggests, this type of massage uses scented oils, also known as essential oils, to be applied to the body during the massage.
The essential oils used can make the body more relaxed, and it is even believed to be useful for curing several diseases. Lavender oil, for example, is believed to make sleep better and relieve PMS symptoms.
In addition to being smeared on the body, you can inhale the fragrance of essential oils with the help of a diffuser which is usually provided in a spa or massage room. This type of massage usually takes 60 to 90 minutes per session.
3. Hot stone massage (hot stone massage)
Hot stone massageaka hot stone massage is perfect for those of you who experience severe muscle pain all over the body. The heat of the stone can help increase blood flow and reduce muscle tension.
This hot stone turned out to be not only attached to the painful part of the body. The reason is, the therapist will massage your body while holding the hot stone. That way, the hot temperature will spread throughout your body to its full potential.
For those of you who want to do this massage but have diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or varicose veins, you should first consult your doctor to confirm your health condition.
4.Deep tissue massage (deep tissue massage)
Compared to Swedish massage, deep tissue massage or deep tissue massagetends to exert more pressure on the body. That is why, this massage is perfect for those of you who experience chronic muscle problems such as muscle pain, injuries,carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoporosis, to posture problems.
The massage technique will be carried out slowly and deeper until it touches the innermost layer of muscles and connective tissue. Relax, this method is relatively safe and will not cause you pain when massaged.
5. Shiatsu massage
Unlike other types of massage, shiatsu massage is done using your fingers, hands, or elbows to massage. This method is done to stimulate acupressure points on the body, the goal is to increase the flow of energy and restore balance to the body.
This type of massage is believed to help reduce stress and protect you from various health problems, such as arthritis, insomnia, back and neck pain, pelvic pain and sinus pain. You don't even need to take your clothes off during a shiatsu massage.
6. Thai massage
Source: Spafinder
Thai massage is a unique blend of massage therapy and yoga to apply pressure along the energy lines of the body. During the Thai massage, you will perform various massage positions together with the therapist.
You may be asked to sit, bend over, tilt right or left, expand your chest, and other stretching positions during the massage. This method can reduce muscle stiffness and back pain, and has even been shown to treat balance problems and migraine symptoms.
7. Prenatal massage
Massage during pregnancy can be done, but with a note that it can only be done by special therapists who have a prenatal massage license. This type of massage can help relieve body aches, muscle tension, swollen feet, and reduce stress during pregnancy.
The pressure applied tends to be gentle and similar to a Swedish massage, so you don't have to worry and worry that it will harm your baby. The therapist will usually focus on the lower back, hips, and legs that are often sore during pregnancy. Even so, still consult with your obstetrician before deciding to have a prenatal massage.
8. Reflexology
This type of massage is perfect for those of you who want a massage, but tend to be sensitive or easily amused when certain parts of the body are touched by other people. Reflexology is more focused on the feet and hands - not the whole body.
The feet and hands are two parts of the body that have acupressure points that connect to other organs or body parts. By pressing just one point on the foot or foot, your nervous system will produce endorphins, aka the hormone of happiness. As a result, you will feel more relaxed and at the same time feel less pain in your body.
9. Sports massage (sports massage)
For those of you who often experience injuries after sports, sports massage is suitable for you. Yes, this type of massage can certainly help you deal with recurring injuries and speed up the recovery process.
In addition, you can also take advantage of sports massage to increase flexibility and endurance during exercise. The comfort provided will keep you from stress, anxiety, and muscle tension.
Interested in trying them one by one?