Different Types Of Massage Therapy

Massage therapy is becoming increasingly popular for specific pain relief as well as for giving people a general feeling of wellbeing and relaxation. It is not really new; people have been massaging themselves as well as their loved ones for centuries. But it is only now that the therapeutic value of massages has become so well known. So the spa visit for which you shelled out half your month’s salary is no longer an indulgence but an investment in your health and happiness. Never before has something that feels so good, been so good for us! Let’s take a look at the different kinds of massage therapies that are available today.

The word “massage” comes from the Arabic word “massa” which means “to touch, feel, or handle”. It could also have originated from the French word “massage” which means “friction of kneading”. Either way, a massage means manipulating the body tissues with manual or mechanical aids. Massages can be done with fingers, elbows, knees, feet, or even forearms. Some common massage methods include:

1. Acupressure, wherein physical pressure is applied to identified “acupressure points” by means of the hand, elbow, or other devices.
2. Ayurvedic massage which is actually a combination of meditation, yoga, and massage using herbal oils. This is supposed to be a complete healthcare system which originated in India.
3. Stone Massage which uses Basalt stones to impart heat and pressure to specific areas of the body.
4. Balinese Massage or the ultimate “feel good” massage where the focus is on kneading, stroking, and rolling the flesh of the patient helping him relax.
5. Shiatsu which is an oriental therapy which uses finger pressure to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Other popular form of massage include the Russian massage, the Thai massage, Swedish massage, as well as the Chinese massage - all named after the countries in which they originated.