Booking a massage is not a one-size-fits-all kind of process. There are lots of different styles of massage and different benefits to gain from them. So, which massage style is the best? There’s no single answer to this question. The best thing to do is talk to your massage therapist about what you hope to gain from massage and they should be able to advise you on the best style of massage for you.
Before then, you can do some research by reading this article to find out a bit more about different types of massage.
Swedish massage – A full body massage that uses long kneading and shorter tapping strokes to make the muscle more pliable. Focuses on top layers of the tissue, so light pressure is used.
Deep tissue massage – Similar techniques to Swedish massage, but more pressure is applied to reach deeper layers of tissue. Deep tissue massage can be full body, but more often focuses on a particular area of tightness or injury.
Sports massage – One more step up, a sports massage typically uses stronger pressure than a deep tissue massage, targeting the muscle itself rather than the connecting tissues on top of it. Often used by athletes for recovery and performance, but is equally beneficial to non-athletes.
Thai massage – As well as pressure and manipulation, Thai massage involves stretching the muscles. Your massage therapist will put you into positions to stretch and twist the body. Can often be done fully clothed.
Hot stone massage – Heated stones are placed on the muscles or used as a massage tool to improve circulation and release tension. Problem areas may be targeted or specific acupressure points around the body.
Reflexology – This also targets specific points of the body that correspond to energy lines throughout the body. The feet, hands, and ears are typically the many focus points. Another massage style that can be done almost fully dressed.
Cupping – Glass cups are heated and placed on the body to pull the skin and tissues into the resulting vacuum. Cupping provides a number of benefits for muscle tension, immune system, and overall relaxation.
Pregnancy massage – Also known as prenatal massage. A form of massage that is safe to perform during pregnancy. Helps to relieve stress and anxiety as well as physical pain and discomfort.
Corporate massage – Fully-clothed massage performed in the workplace using a specialized massage chair. Usually targets the back, neck, and shoulders – areas that often become tense from working at a desk all day.
Hopefully, these quick summaries have given you an idea about the types of massage that might benefit you. To find out more about the massage types we offer or to book a massage in Winston Salem, get in touch with us today.