We all want to get the most out of anything we spend money or time on. Massage is one of the things you treat yourself to and to make the most of your experience you should definitely choose a massage technique that best fits your needs. Generally most people that come out of a massage not fully enjoying it is because they chose the wrong type of massage technique. So you should always do your research so you know what to expect and receive a massage that you desire. Here are a few descriptions of some common therapeutic massages.
Swedish massage is not only relaxing, but also deeply healing. It has been known to demonstrate help with depression, pain syndromes, immune problems, diabetes, cancer and even HIV. Swedish massages are great for beginners who are a little modest because a common technique called “draping” is used in it, which means that most of the body is covered by a sheet during the massage, and the sheet is moved as the massage therapist moves to a new section of the body. Swedish massage is meant to be a quiet, relaxing experience, and therapists often play soft music in the background while administering the massage.
Deep tissue massage incorporates penetrating kneading techniques, cross-grain strokes and trigger-point releases. Deep tissue massage really gets into the belly of the muscle and addresses the muscle attachments. Some people find it painful, but it’s very therapeutic. Choose it if you have areas of chronic tension or muscular injuries. Many of the same techniques used in Swedish massage are also implemented in deep tissue massage, but the pressure is usually more intense and focused. Rather than massaging the entire neck and back, deep tissue massage will usually be focused on problem areas and stiff muscles.
Thai massage is also called the lazy man’s yoga. You lie on the table and let your therapist work your body through a series of stretches designed to release muscular tension. Some sessions you keep your clothes on and some you are unclothed. Thai massage charges you up and energizes you. Muscle compression, joint mobilization, and acupressure are also used during treatment. People describe Thai massage as both relaxing and energizing.
There are many different massages and techniques but those are a few more common ones to help you better decide on a massage to your needs and save you from some trial and error.