You usually hear about sports massage, Swedish massage, and deep tissue massage when it comes to advice or advertisements about massage treatments. And more recently, treatments like cupping and hot stone massage have risen in popularity. But there are lots and lots of different types of massage with fascinating roots, including some types you may not have even heard of before.
They may be harder to come across when you’re looking to book a treatment, but let’s learn about some of the less common types of massage.
Tui na massage
This ancient Chinese form of massage (pronounced twee nah) translates to “pinch and pull”, which tells you a little bit about the techniques used. With tui na, the massage therapist targets certain points on the body, similar to acupressure or acupuncture, to address blockages and imbalances to your qi (or chi). A variety of massage techniques can be used, both light and deep, and oils and lotions can be incorporated.
Belavi massage
Also known as the facelift massage, this facial massage targets pressure points and stimulates the tissues around the face, helping to increase blood flow and drain lymph fluid. Heat is often used to open the pores as well, before applying moisturizers and other lotions to the face. This technique is said to improve the skin and combat signs of aging.
Pfrimmer deep muscle therapy
This type of deep muscle massage therapy was developed in the 20th century to help those experiencing muscle paralysis, but it is also useful for pain and injury. It uses cross-fiber massage techniques to remove waste, toxins, and lymph from the tissues, as well as increasing blood flow and improving joint mobility. It can be useful for managing chronic pain and aiding recovery, and can be useful for those with conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
Balinese massage
Balinese massage uses a combination of different massage techniques, drawing on acupressure, Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy, and others. It is a relaxing form of massage that aims to increase blood flow around your body as well as the flow of energy, or qi. Essential oils are commonly used, and the massage therapist will use gentle strokes as well as deeper ones to target knots and deep tissue.
Esalen massage
This kind of massage is different in that it aims to heal the mind more than the body. It uses gentle strokes across the entire body to strengthen the connection between mind and body, helping to improve bodily awareness. As well as the typical massage benefits such as increased blood flow and relaxation, Esalen massage helps you become more in-tune with your body.
Contact Moonstone Massage or check out our treatment options online to find out about the different kinds of massage and other treatments we offer in our clinic in Winston Salem, NC.