Types of massage therapy
Massage therapy is a manipulation of soft tissue for the purpose of normalizing them, practitioners can use a variety of physical methods including applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, or causing movement to the body. The basic goal of massage therapy is to help the body heal itself and to increase health and well-being, there many different types of massage therapy which are practiced like Swedish massage, hot stone massage and Thai massage London. Therapists primarily use their hands, but may also use their forearms, elbows, or feet.
Swedish massage
This type of massage therapy is the most common and considered a general form of massage therapy, most people opt for a Swedish massage if they want to relax and unwind and only have slight muscle ache. If you have never had a massage before this is probably the best to try first.
Aromatherapy massage
With this massage therapy scented plant oils are used whilst having a massage these are call essential oils. A massage therapist can select oils to help with a specific problem and can help relax, energize, reduce stress and balance, the essential oils used in an aromatherapy massage are best suited to help reduce stress related problems or conditions with an emotional component.
Hot stone massage
This type of massage therapy uses as you can see from the name, hot stones, which are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centres in the body. The warmth from the warm smooth stones is very comforting and is good for people who prefer a lighter massage and who may suffer from muscle tension.
Shiatsu
This is a form of Japanese body work which is different to other types of massage therapy it uses localised finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. The therapist will hold each point for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. This form of therapy is very relaxing with little soreness afterwards even though pressure is firm.
Thai massage
A Thai massage like shiatsu also aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points it also includes compressions and stretches. A Thai massage London therapist will move and stretch you into a sequence of postures that will leave you feeling energised and also it reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion.
Thai massage
Picture courtesy of thomaswanhoff
Socialize