Massage therapy has been around for centuries and evolved so much that nowadays, no matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, there’s a massage that can do just that.
Maybe you’ve had 1 or 2 massages before, or maybe you’re looking to book your very first one. With so many different types of massage therapy available, it can be hard to choose the one that best suits the type of pain you’re experiencing, your pain tolerance, and your overall goals.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through 5 different types of massage and their benefits to help you decide what’s best for you.
1. Swedish massage
You’ve probably heard of a Swedish massage before—it’s one of the most popular types out there, and for good reason! It’s the traditional massage choice for first-timers or anyone looking to relax and unwind.
What it involves
The typical Swedish massage technique involves a mixture of the following:
- Kneading your muscles
- Vibration—gentle pulsing motions on the body using the hands and fingers
- Long, flowing strokes towards the heart, also called effleurage
- Light to deep pressure on your muscles and bones
- Tapping your muscles to stimulate blood flow
- Moving your joints
- Stronger strokes across your back and shoulders
What it’s good for
A Swedish massage is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and de-stress. Whether you’re experiencing muscle tension or you just want to treat yourself, it’s a classic choice to leave you feeling refreshed.
2. Deep tissue massage
Consider a deep tissue massage when you want to take things up a notch from a Swedish massage. This isn’t the massage to pick if you want a light, relaxing experience. It’s designed to really get into those deeper muscle layers and fascia (the layers of soft tissues that hold muscles together).
A deep tissue massage is often confused with a sports massage, as they both focus on relieving muscle tension and helping to improve circulation and mobility. A sports massage is more tailored to athletes dealing with sport-specific injuries and doesn’t usually include the whole body.
What it involves
A deep tissue massage can target specific problem areas or the entire body. Let your massage therapist know if you have a preference.
- The massage therapist will warm up your muscles with lighter pressure and massage oil
- The pressure will gradually intensify and they’ll use knuckles, forearms, or elbows to target the deeper layers of muscle
- They’ll start deeply kneading and stroking the muscles with varying amounts of intense pressure
- As your muscle fibers are realigned, you might feel some friction and possibly a bit of discomfort, especially if you’re working through tight or stubborn spots known as trigger points
Remember: It’s normal to feel a little soreness, but don’t hesitate to let your therapist know if it gets to be too much. The goal is to release tension, not cause pain. They can adjust the pressure to keep you comfortable while still getting the results you need.
What it’s good for
One of the deeper and more intensive types of massage therapy, a deep tissue massage is ideal for those with chronic muscle pain or knots.
It’s great for promoting the body’s natural healing processes, easing sciatica pain, and helping those with limited mobility. If you have consistently tight muscles or sore spots, a deep tissue massage can be a non-invasive way to give you long-lasting pain relief.
3. Shiatsu massage
This is an ancient Japanese massage technique whose name means “finger pressure”. Shiatsu focuses on stimulating pressure points along the body to help clear energy blockages, restore the body’s natural energy flow (called Qi), reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.
One of the main differences between shiatsu and other types of massage therapy is that it doesn’t involve oils or lotions, and you’re usually clothed.
What it involves
Like other massage types, a shiatsu massage can involve the whole body, or it can be targeted to focus on areas that need a little extra attention and care.
- Your therapist will use their hands, palms, and thumbs to massage pressure points across your body
- Application of pulsing or rhythmic pressure
- Gentle stretching or joint mobilization
- Pressure can vary from light to deep
What it’s good for
Shiatsu is excellent for stress reduction, improved blood circulation, and higher energy levels. It’s also said to be helpful for anxiety, depression, insomnia, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
4. Hot stone massage
A hot stone massage is exactly what it sounds like—smooth, heated stones are placed on specific points of your body to help relax muscles through heat therapy.
These hot stones are usually made of a type of volcanic rock called basalt, known for its heat-retaining qualities. Where they’re placed depends on the muscles and tissues that’ll be worked on during the treatment.
What it involves
The massage therapist will often use Swedish massage techniques with the hot stones—long strokes, circular movements, vibrations, and kneading. This combination of soothing heat and gentle pressure creates an excellent therapeutic massage that helps you fully unwind.
What it’s good for
A hot stone massage is a good option for those who want the added relaxation of heat and the tension release of traditional massage techniques. You might also enjoy:
- Better sleep
- Boosted immune system
- Reduced inflammation
- Hot stone massage may even relieve pain in those with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia.
5. Prenatal massage
During pregnancy, your body changes in so many ways, often leaving you with new aches and pains. Whether it’s lower back discomfort, leg cramps, or tension in the shoulders, those little (or not-so-little) pains can add up.
Prenatal massage addresses all these problem areas in a safe, effective way, giving you some much needed relief.
What it involves
Depending on how far along you are, you may not be able to lay on the massage table the traditional way. Your therapist will do their best to find a position that feels best for you—whether that’s laying on your side or sitting upright.
Your therapist will use mild pressure and light, relaxing strokes similar to a Swedish massage, focusing on any painful areas with a gentle and soothing approach.
What it’s good for
Apart from total mind and body relaxation, a prenatal massage is particularly good for:
- Reducing anxiety
- Easing pelvic pain
- Reducing swelling in the ankles or feet
- Lowering blood pressure
Note: Some massage therapists may not offer treatments to women in their first trimester due to the increased risk of miscarriage during this early stage of pregnancy.
Ready to relax and de-stress?
At my studio, I offer all of these massage therapy options and more, so whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing Swedish massage, need deep tissue relief, or want something tailored to your specific needs, I can help.
Book a massage today and let’s help you feel your best inside and out.
