The 11 types of massage: a complete guide

Your body is pretty good at letting you know that it needs a massage - if only it could tell you what kind of massage would benefit it the most. If you are new to the subject of massage or have never ventured beyond your Swedish session, it could be confusing to explore all the different types of massage that exist. Fortunately, we are here to help you decipher the different styles and benefits of massage so that you can book for the one that is most beneficial to you.

Types of massages

1. Swedish massage.

This relaxation-focused form of massage is the first thing that comes to mind when they think of a massage. Therapists use a sequence of long, gliding movements, kneading, and circular motions, which help to release surface tension in the muscles.

Benefit: Aside from helping to relax muscles and release surface tension, a Swedish massage can help improve blood circulation throughout the body.

Try it if: you are new to the world of massage or if you are looking to release mild to moderate tension in your back or shoulders.

2. Deep tissue massage.

As the name suggests, a deep tissue massage aims to release tension in the deepest layers of muscle tissues and fascia. As such, it employs a more intense kneading technique than Swedish massage.
Benefits: Deep tissue massage is great for releasing chronic tension and can help improve the range of motion.

Try it if: you suffer from chronic aches and pains or want more pressure than that offered by classic Swedish massages.

3. Hot stone massage.

Rather than relying solely on your hands to work your stubborn knots, your massage therapist places heated basalt stones on your back to help relax tight areas. Benefits: In addition to helping to release tight areas, the heat emanating from the stones can help improve blood flow.

Try it if: you suffer from difficult-to-loosen problem spots and like the idea of ​​therapeutic heat.

4. Sports massage.

Specifically designed with athletes in mind, sports massage is a variation on Swedish massage, focusing on ailments caused by repetitive motion, helping to activate receptors to quickly recover from stress and injury.

Benefits: faster recovery from workouts, better range of motion, and improved execution are just some of the benefits reported by those who receive regular sports massages.

Try it if: you play sports or do physical activities frequently and want to keep your body in optimal condition.

5. Shiatsu massage.

Shiatsu massage is a Japanese massage style rooted in Chinese medicine. This massage aims to remove blockages that prevent the body's source of energy, or Qi energy, from flowing freely. Therapists use several different techniques, often using their elbows, knees, or even feet, as they work on body tension from the back, joints, and extremities.

Benefits: A shiatsu massage is considered a great way to relieve stress, as it promotes optimal circulation and oxytocin production.

Try it if: you need to seriously de-stress and relax. Or if you are curious about the existing types of oriental massages and need to be introduced to them.

6. Trigger point massage.

Like deep tissue massage, trigger point massages aim to dissipate chronic tension deep within the muscles. However, while deep tissue massage is ideal for treating tension spread over a large area, trigger point massage is more suitable for treating pain radiating from very specific points.

Benefits: Relieves pain caused by sciatica, rotator cuff problems, plantar fasciitis, and other specific issues.

Try it if: you suffer from any of the ailments mentioned above AND are able to endure some "severe love" (trigger point massages have a reputation for being a bit painful).

7. Couples massage.

Massage therapists knead both clients side by side in the same room. Swedish massage is the typical modality used, but you can also feel free to request other types of massage, such as deep tissue or hot stone massage. Benefits: Although it often has a romantic context, a couples massage is also a great idea to reconnect with a close friend, family member, or anyone with whom you don't mind remaining semi-nude.

Give it a try if: You're looking to reconnect with a romantic partner or if you can't do without your spa blog buddy for even an hour.

8. Prenatal massage.

This massage aims to relieve pain related to pregnancy. Instead of resting the back, the client will recline to one side, or a massage table with a built-in hole will be used so that she can support her stomach. Benefits: reduces the pain caused by pregnancy and can also help fight depression, insomnia, and anxiety.

Try it if: Your pregnancy is causing you significant lower back pain (just be sure to check with your doctor first).

9. Reflexology.

Reflexology is a specialized form of foot massage during which practitioners stimulate precise points on the foot, which are believed to be correlated with other organs and body systems.

Benefits: Traditionally, it is believed that reflexology can help correct imbalances in the body. However, like any type of foot massage, it is also beneficial in relieving tensions developed by wearing heels or standing all day.

Give it a try if: you are curious about how reflexology can reveal other problems with your health OR you just need an excuse to elevate your feet for a bit.

10. Thai massage.

Thai massage, also known as "yoga massage," is a specialty in which the therapist performs a series of intense stretches on a fully clothed client. Benefits: Improved flexibility, better range of motion, and temporary pain relief are just a few of the reported benefits of Thai massage. You may also be interested in esthetician blog

Give it a try if: you need help reaching deeper stretches and like the idea of ​​staying fully clothed during a massage.

11. Foot massage.

As it sounds: a relaxing foot massage.

Benefits: Unlike reflexology, which specifically targets other areas of the body, a traditional foot massage is simply intended to provide relaxation for heavy feet.