Introduction
Massage is the act of working on the body with pressure for physical, psychological or functional body healings. A massage can be done manually or with mechanical aids. There are different massage types differentiated by the variety of pressures, techniques and movements. Let us have a look at them through this article along with the benefits that they offer through this article. We will also discuss some of the possible the side effects of these massages.
Swedish massage
This type of massage is best to relieve muscle pain by removing knots and tension and to increase flexibility or mobility by reducing stiffness in muscle and joints. It involves variety of long smooth rubbings and circular movements on the effected part of the body. It is very gentle and soothing for the first timers too in order to relieve the emotional and physical stress of the body.
Aromatherapy massage
Aromatherapy involves the use of the scented oil like lavender on the body to send the message to the limbic system of the brain which controls the emotions and influences the flow of hormones inside the body. It addresses the specific need of the body parts and has very calming and cool effect on the body. Geranium, rosemary and chamomile are some of the oils which are used for the aromatherapy process.
Deep tissue massage
Deep tissue message is helpful to give relief in the cases of chronically tight and painful muscles and repetitive strain and postural problems. This type of massage is helpful in relieving the stiff neck and sore shoulders which arises often due to the long hours sitting in front of the computer or on the chair. It targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses the direct dep pressure or friction here.
Neuromuscular massage
In this massage the pressure is applied on the specific area of the skeleton skin to stimulate it. These areas are myofascial trigger points and once they are found the force have to be applied perpendicular to them if that particular muscle is to be stimulated. The overall effect of this massage is to restore the balance of the autonomic nervous system.
Lymphatic massage
This massage is a technique used to help increase lymph flow – using a very light pressure combined with soft pumping movements in the direction of the lymph nodes. A lymph drainage massage is particularly useful in detoxifying the body and to boost the immune system, and can be helpful in cases of edema, sports injury or for people experiencing a sluggish immune system or those suffering from a lack of energy.
Shiatsu massage
This massage is a Japanese body art which relieves the blockages from the meridians of the body through pressure on certain points. No unclothing of the person or the use of needles is required in this massage. Typically, a point is held for two to eight seconds to improve energy flow and regain balance.
Thai massage
Thai massage involves gently pressing specific points of the body and aligning the energy flow in the body. It also involves the stretching and compression of the body by the therapists. This massage is known to give the improvement in flexibility and in the elimination of stress.
Reflexology
Reflexology involves the massage or squeeze of the hand, feet and ears to benefit other body parts in order to improve the general health. It can also be used to heal the body after an injury, trauma, illness or stress. This method is effective in treating back pain, migraines, fertility problems, arthritis, sleep disorders, sports injuries, hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders and stress-related conditions.
Massage Types, Benefits and Side Effects
Hot stone massage
This type of massage loosens the tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. For this the hot stones are used as massage tool and gentle pressure is applied on them. Hot stones are heated to around 45 degrees and are slide up and down your skin while heating and soothing away the tension as they go.
Pregnancy massage
The prenatal massage is used to target symptoms related to pregnancy – such as stress, swelling, aches and pains, indigestion, anxiety and depression. Becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers, a pregnancy massage is performed by therapists who are certified and know how to support a pregnant woman’s body correctly during the massage.
Side-effects of massage
Benefits of massage are plentiful. Most people feel relaxed and pampered after a massage, both mentally and physically. Sometimes, however, the side-effects of a massage can be quite unpleasant, depending on the condition your body is in and how often you are getting a massage.
- The massage works to remove toxins and increase blood supply, and the toxins are released into the blood stream. This can sometimes result in typical detox symptoms such as sinus problems, headaches and even nausea.
- If you don’t get a massage often, it is possible that you’ll feel bruised the next day – especially if you have a deep tissue massage. It is advisable to request a massage that’s milder to start off with, and take it from there.
- And when it comes to aromatherapy massage, be aware of allergies to certain oils
But keep in mind that side-effects of massage are only temporary, so you’ll feel good again within a couple of days.
