With so many different kinds of massage therapy programs available today, it has made it difficult for people to choose which one is for them

The Swedish Massage, which is often called the classic or traditional massage. This is the most common massage therapy method and it is what most people usually prefer. The long and flowing strokes characterize this method, and it is ideal for relaxing muscles, improving joint flexibility and aiding in better circulation.

The first stroke is known as effleurage, this involves a long gliding stroke from the neck down to the base of the spine or from the shoulder down to the fingertips. It is also done on the limbs with all strokes directed toward the heart to aid blood and lymphatic flow. A therapist would normally use there whole hand or a thumb pad to do this.

Next is petrissage, this consists of the gentle lifting of muscles, then rolling and squeezing them, while applying a gentle pressure. This helps to enhance deeper circulation, it also increases circulation which in turn eliminates toxins from muscle and nerve tissue.

The third technique friction, is the most forceful one and uses deep circular movements using fingertips. it is applied near bony areas and joints, it relaxes the muscle fiber which in turn enhances flexibility in muscles and joints.

Last of all, a therapist will use vibration or shaking, this would normally entail the pressing of hands on the back or limbs and shaking in a vigorous motion for a few moments. Again this is used to improve circulation and is beneficial to people with low-back pain.

The Ayurvedic massage originated from India and the aim of this method is to create harmony and balance within the individual. It is worth noting that this method is renown for removal of toxins and rejuvenation of the body.

Ayurvedic massage uses specific oils that suit your dosha. One such, is the Abhyanga-Garshana which comprises of skin brushing followed by an oil massage. Udwarthanam which is a slimming massage that uses herbal powders and the Ayurvedic foot massage which is a deep massage where the therapist uses his feet.

Now you have enough knowledge on both Swedish and Ayurvedic massage, it is up to you to choose between the two which best suits your style of relaxation. Remember both massages having unique qualities and techniques, the choosing part can be a little tricky though, so if you are still undecided why not try both?

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 Below I briefly describe some of the more common types of massage therapy available.

Swedish Massage

This is usually what massage therapists start with and they may add different types of therapies to this base.  This massage is a manipulation of the muscles using kneading, tapping or shaking to lossen and relax the muscles.  I have found this type of massage very good for relaxing my shoulders as I tend to scrunch them up to my ears when I am tense.

Shiatsu

In this form a massage, the goal is to restore your chi which, according to ancient Chinese medicine, flows along the meridians of your body.  Disruption in the flow of chi is said to cause health problems.  This form of massage uses pressure applied by fingers, hands, elbows and knees and does not require you to undress.  I found this type of massage quite vigourous, if that’s the right word, and not what I would call relaxing. 

Rolfing

This is also known as structural realignment, and, as this suggests, can be even more vigourous than Shiatsu.  If invloves deep pressure with fingers and elbows to realign the body.

Reflexology

Based on the meridians of energy mentioned above, this therapy uses pressure on the hands and feet.  It is thought that the chi has many points in the hands and feet that relate to various systems in the body and that by applying pressure to particular points, the funtion of the targeted system is improved.

Sports Massage

A variation of the Swedish massage, this type of massage is aimed at relaxing and streatching muscles that have been injured.  The compressions and streatching of the muscles is thought to help them relax and promote healing.

Trigger Point Therapy

In this type of massage therapy, the therapist identifies trigger (or sore) points in your muscles. By applying continous pressure to the sore spot for about 10 seconds, the tension in the muscles is released.

 To find out more about these types of massage therapy, talk to your local massage therapist and see what services are offered and which one might be right for you.