There are more than 80 known types of massages, each with its own unique characteristics. These different types of massages and methods are called modalities. Modalities have been developed to address specific problems or areas of concern in order to obtain personalized results. We won't list all the modalities here because there are so many, but below you'll find seven popular modalities that you can commonly find.
Swedish massage is the typical modality used, but you can also request other types of massages, such as deep tissue or hot stone massages. Hot stone massage sessions usually complement a regular massage experience and do not exclusively use stones for their entire duration. Of course, the right level of heat is a great way to relax muscle tension and increase relaxation levels. If you are pregnant, massage during pregnancy uses different positions to adapt to your shape.
While the practice is considered safe, it's also best to find a certified prenatal massage therapist. Reflexology, also known as “zone therapy”, involves applying different levels of pressure to the hands, feet and ears. According to the American Reflexology Association, these techniques stimulate neural pathways and support optimal body functioning. Shiatsu massage dates back to ancient Japan and means “finger pressure”.
Men's Health has called percussion massage the “new foam roll”. Aromatherapy massage uses plant essential oils to improve mental and physical well-being. Trigger point massage aims to dissipate chronic tension located deep in the muscles. Sports massage is, as you might expect, ideal for athletes or anyone with a physically demanding lifestyle.
Thai massage is different from other techniques, as the patient lies on the floor and actively participates. Massage has always been a great way to get your blood pumping. Thai massage, in particular, works wonders with its yoga-like stretches that fill the body's tissues with oxygen. Whether it's your first massage or number 50, you may not be aware of the many types of massages that exist. There are a variety of types of massage therapy that have incredible benefits for mental and physical health (usually under the heading of therapeutic massage), while fulfilling different functions. Swedish massage should be the first thing on your list if you're looking for a way to relax or if you want to experience your first treatment.
A study conducted by the Mood and Anxiety Disorders Program at Emory University investigated the effects of Swedish massage on people who suffered from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), but who were not receiving medical treatment. The Swedish massage group reported a significant reduction in anxiety scores, and researchers said it could be an effective treatment for the condition. A study found that Thai massage can reduce the levels of the stress marker present in our saliva. Another way to treat trigger points is through ancient Chinese acupressure therapy, a mix of acupuncture and reflexology. A study, involving 58 cancer patients, looked at how participants felt before and after an aromatherapy massage. Another study, which followed 340 participants suffering from alopecia, revealed that scalp massages twice a day improved hair loss in 69% of participants.
If you're feeling stressed and exhausted, you might want to consider a shiatsu massage. The technique has been scientifically proven to promote emotional and physical calm. Deep tissue massage aims to relieve tension in the deeper layers of muscle tissue and fascia. Because of this, it uses more intense kneading techniques than Swedish kneading techniques. Masseuses knead two clients side by side in the same room for couples massages. As we enter this new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada, some public health requirements in public settings are changing. Changes such as no longer having to present proof of vaccination to have dinner at a restaurant or that we are no longer required to wear a mask when we are going to do the shopping. Whether you're looking for relaxation or relief from pain or discomfort associated with a medical condition, there is a type of massage therapy that can help you achieve your goals.
