Massage therapy is the scientific manipulation of the soft tissues that are used to enhance wellness and manage a health condition. Massage Therapy is one of the earliest tools that was used by people to relieve pain. Throughout human history, massage has been practiced in both the Eastern and Western cultures.

massage therapy

Massage is used to improve the flow of the blood and to reduce muscular tension. Massage is the practice of rubbing the body using hands. Massage is of different types that depend on the different parts of the body.

Types of Massage Therapy

Deep Tissue Massage Therapy

 Deep tissue massage is best for the ones who are suffering from chronic muscle problems. Massage therapists will use deep finger pressure and slow strokes to relieve anxiety and tension from the deepest layers of your connective tissue and muscles.

Time Duration: 60-90 minutes

Hot Stone Massage

 If you simply want to relax or want to get rid of muscle pain and tension, then Hot Stone Massage is best for you. The massage therapist uses heated stones to improve the blood flow, muscle tension, and to relieve pain. In this massage heated stones are placed on different parts of your body.

Time Duration: 90 minutes

Swedish Massage Therapy

Swedish massage is the full body massage that is best for people who have a lot of tension, who are very sensitive to touch, and who are new to massage. If you want full relaxation then it is the best option for you. It helps to release muscle knots.

The massage therapist will use a deep circular motion, vibration, passive joint movement technique, and flowing strokes in the direction of the heat.

Time Duration: 60-90 minutes

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Aromatherapy Massage

 If you want to have an emotional healing component to your message, then you can choose this type of massage therapy. Aromatherapy Massage will help to reduce anxiety and stress, boost the mood, relieve pain and muscle tension, and reduce the symptoms of depression.

This type of massage is done by using essential oils with gentle pressure. You will be given a full-body massage inhaling the essential oils.

Time Duration: 16-90 minutes

Trigger Point Massage

Trigger point massage is best for people who have chronic pain, injuries, or a specific condition. In this type of massage therapy, flowing strokes are used, which is relaxing and gently combined with deeper, stronger pressure.

Time duration: 60-90 minutes

Sports Massage

 If you have an injury in your muscle that is repetitive because of playing any sport then this massage therapy is best for you. Sports massage therapy also helps to increase your performance and flexibility. This therapy can also be used to relieve anxiety, pain, and muscle tension.

Time Duration: 60-90 minutes

Thai Massage

Thai massage is the best choice for people who want to reduce stress and pain, who want a more active form of massage, who want flexibility, circulation, and want to increase the energy levels. 

Time Duration: 60-90 minutes

Prenatal Massage

If you are pregnant and looking for a prenatal massage therapist then you must go with the Prenatal massage. This massage can help in reducing pregnancy body ache, relieve muscle tension, and reduce stress. You can go for this massage at any time during your pregnancy. The therapist will focus on the lower back, legs, and hip areas. 

Time Duration: 45-60 minutes

Chair Massage Therapy

Chair massage is the type of massage that is done quickly while focusing on your shoulders, neck, and back area. You can also choose chair massage as your first-time massage therapy. You will have to sit on a specially designed chair. Chair massage will help to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

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Time Duration: 10-30 minutes

Where To Find A Massage Therapist

When you are looking for a massage therapist near you, then you must consider the one who is recommended by your trusted doctor, friends, or family. Make sure that you feel comfortable with the massage therapist before starting the therapy so that you can be fully relaxed.

Don’t forget to check the certification of your massage therapist and make sure that he or she has good experience in this field. You must have a brief conversation before starting the therapy so that you can feel comfortable, you can share your expectation, and can ask relevant questions.

Some Myths about Massage Therapy

  • Massage spreads cancer 
  • The effects of a massage are temporary
  • All Massages are of the same type
  • Not good for the pregnant lady as she can miscarry after a massage
  • You only have to drink water after a massage
  • Even ff you are hurting during massage therapy then you are not allowed to disturb the therapist
  • Massage only cleanses the body and releases toxins

Conclusion

Massage could be a way for you to feel relaxed, physically, emotionally, and mentally fit. You can do an experiment with a different type of massage with different massage therapists so that you can find the best provider for you. You must consult a doctor before visiting a therapist to check if you have any health issues, which could worsen after the massage therapy.