For centuries, massage therapy has been a common practice for people all over the world. In addition to being relaxing, massages can also be an effective treatment for a variety of ailments. But while some may see massage therapy as nothing more than rubbing, the truth is that there’s much more to it than that.
In fact, there there are several different types of massage therapy and each of them has its own unique benefits. The next time you book an appointment with your massage therapist (like the ones at Natural Healthcare Center, for example), you may want to keep an eye out for different types of massages and their individual benefits. Keep reading to learn more about massage therapy and which type may be the best fit for you.
Types of Massage Therapy
There are more than a dozen different types of massage therapy, but in this article, we will focus on some of the most common/accessible.
Deep Tissue Massage
People who are suffering from muscle soreness will likely find that a deep tissue massage is exactly what they need. This type of massage therapy involves slow and firm pressure that is designed to loosen tight muscles. For example, people who sit all day may develop postural problems over time and a deep tissue massage can help relieve tension. That said, deep tissue massages are not a great option for people who suffer from certain chronic conditions such as lupus.
Hot Stone Massage
If you’re used to getting massages but want to switch things up a little, you may consider getting a hot stone massage. As the name suggests, this type of massage incorporates hot stones to help add an extra layer of relaxation. These stones also allow the massage therapist to go deeper because the heat from the stones helps to loosen your muscles. It’s important to note that hot stones massages are typically offered as an add-on service to other types of massages. Before you book an appointment for massage therapy in Oshawa, you’ll want to verify that they offer a hot stone package. In general, a hot stone massage can be a good option for anyone. However, those with sensitive skin may find the heat to be a bit uncomfortable.
Prenatal Massage
Pregnancy can be very hard on a woman’s body and it can cause lots of stress and tension throughout the joints and muscles. Pre-natal massages were specifically designed to cater to pregnant women. Instead of lying face down which is common for other types of massages, pre-natal massages typically take place with the client on their back and/or side. While lots of facilities may offer prenatal massages, it’s best to go with someone who is specifically trained in this style. Remember to do your research to find a trusted RMT in Waterloo.
Shiatsu
Originating in Japan, Shiatsu is a form of massage that uses various techniques including kneading and tapping. Since Shiatsu also incorporates lots of stretching, it is sometimes often referred to as physical therapy. In addition to traditional massage facilities, you may be able to find a shiatsu practitioner by looking into physio in North York.
Sports Massage
Whether you’re an athlete who competes at a high level or someone who simply plays for fun, playing sports can be very hard on a person’s body. Sports massages were specifically designed to help athletes recover from the stress of intense physical activity. Sports massages can combine other techniques such as deep tissues and shiatsu.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massages are very popular and it is often what people think of when the word massage comes to mind. Swedish massages involve long gliding strokes and is typically done for relaxation. But while Swedish massages typically use light pressure, you can always ask your therapist to be more firm.
Which Is Best For You
If you’re experiencing muscle pain and/or tension, a deep tissue or sports massage could be a great option. If you’re looking to relax, shiatsu, hot stone, and Swedish massages should be at the top of your list.
At the end of the day, the kind of massage that will work best for you will depend on why you want the massage in the first place. By talking to a trained massage therapist, you can get an idea of which option may make the most sense for you. Having a better understanding of what each massage has to offer will make your decision easier.