Types of Massage

Here is a quick guide to the most popular types of massage therapy to help you figure out which massage
therapy style is right for you. Please note: not all types of massages listed below will be offered by our
partnered therapists. Make sure to read the listed specialties for each member, before booking their service.
Swedish Massage Therapy
This is the most common type of massage therapy performed today.
The goal is to relax the entire body into a state of bliss. Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements with a lubricated oil or lotion. The strokes are usually done in the direction of blood towards the heart.
Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you’ve never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.
Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.
The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. Lavender is the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage. Different scents could be used on a per bases treatment. For example: Lavender is commonly used for treating depression, Chamomile is used for sleeping disorders, and Peppermint could be used for mental clarity.
Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.
Hot Stone Massage
Heated-smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The hardness of the stone allows the therapist to address specific area problems with deeper pressure.
The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth from the hot water is comforting and relaxing.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.
Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage. This type of massage is especially helpful for people with chronically tense or tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, or lower back.
Shiatsu (also known as Acupressure)
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence. Therapists apply pressure with the thumbs, fingers and palms to specific areas of the clients body that is determines before the session.
Each point is held for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.
People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards. It is common to have a mixture of tapping, squeezing, and rubbing preformed during this type of massage. This combination is done to try to unblock energy blockages and continue a smooth flow of positive energy throughout the body.
Thai Massage
Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches. This massage is more energizing and rigorous that traditional massages.
During the massage, the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures, almost like yoga. This is done to get the blood flowing into difficult areas. This technique also reduces stress, improves flexibility and range of motion.
Reflexology (also known as Foot Massage)
Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. This technique is a mixture of massaging, squeezing, pushing and pulling. Reflexology is perfect for people who stand on their feet all day.
The idea of this type of massage is that the foot is connected to every part of the human body. By applying certain pressure to different areas in the foot, it will help health and relaxation throughout the body as a whole.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is designed for people who are involved in physical activity such as sports. This type of massage is done in preparation for optimal performance, recovery after difficult events, or to maximize potential during training. You do not have to be a professional athlete to get this type of massage. It is very commonly used by anyone who is physically active. This massage is also good for people with injuries, chronic pain or restricted range of motion.
A combination of techniques is used when performing this type of massage. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage with more pressure. Stretching is commonly done to help to loosen muscles and increase flexibility during this massage.
Trigger Point Massage (also known as Myopoint Therapy)
Trigger point massage is used on muscles that are restricted or tight in a certain area and are affecting the muscles around it. This type of massage is specifically designed to relieve the tension and pain in the isolated area through releasing energizing endorphins and eliminating toxins in the muscle.
This type of massage is known to have immediate effects on reduction of pain in that specified tense area. A lot of times this work is incorporated in with other types of massage.
Back Massage
Some massage clinics and spas offer a 30-minute neck or back massage. If this term is used, you should express to the therapists what types of pain or focused areas you would like worked on. This is a widely used term that could be used to define many of the terms above. Be specific when you are talking with your massage therapist and let them help guide you in the right area of massage for your body and lifestyle.
Ayurevedic Massage
Ayurevedic Massage is a set of massages that originated in India. This type of massage focuses on improving your blood circulation and building up your immune system by flushing out harmful toxins. The ayurvedic massage involves using the technique of mixing various essential oils with uniform gentle strokes on the affected part of the body. Using only upward gentle strokes are applied to the affected part of the body. The special oils used include bauna oil, dhanvataram tailam and maha narayan. This type of massage is considered helpful for people who are weak and do not possess the strength needed to work out or exercise.
Tantra Massage
Tantra Massage is a type of massage that teaches specific techniques to help center feelings of relaxation and to deepen communication and intimacy with your partner. This involves long, slow massaging and a focus on deep breathing. Extra attention is applied to the gluets and thighs because this is the area where we tend to hold onto past emotional, stresses and traumas. You will be instructed on how to pump energy from the root charka through your body.
Muscle Energy Technique
Muscle Energy Technique is a massage that is based on the principle of a theory that explains that muscles are on one side of a joint will always relax to accommodate the contraction of muscles on the other side of that joint when indirect pressure is applied. This principle is called reciprocal inhibition. This would be a good massage for athletes for preventative measures to guard against any future injuries. The procedure for this massage is to contract muscles for a short 5 seconds against an anti force provided by a therapist. This massage helps improve range of motion.
Rolfing Massage
Rolfing is a form of bodywork that is influenced by physical therapy, yoga and osteopathy. The goal of Rolfing is to improve one’s health by bringing parts of the body into the proper alignment. Poor posture, muscle tension and pain, mostly in the neck, upper and lower back are treated when practitioners use their elbows fingers and knuckles to stretch and open fascia (the fibrous layers covering the muscles) to correct the patterns of habitual misalignment of the shoulder, head, pelvis and legs. Rolfing helps open up breathing, improve digestion and balance the nervous system. Treatments are suggested to include about 10 weeks of 1-hour sessions, with each session focusing on a different part of the body.
Watsu Massage
Watsu is a very different type of massage therapy that was developed in 1980 to apply Zen Shiatsu student’s stretches while floating in a warm pool. The name Watsu comes from a combination of “water” and Shiatsu”. There are few specific places where this 98.6-degree (the exact temperature of your body) pool can be found (California, Arkansas, Florida, for example). During Watsu, the massage therapist cradles your body, while you wear floats around your ankles to help you with your buoyancy. The therapist twirls you in circles one way, and then the other, putting your body through a series of passive stretches and twists. The stretching in the buoyancy of water allows the spinal column to be moved in ways that aren’t possible while on land.
Champissage Massage
Champissage is a traditional form of an Indian Head massage. The name is originated by ‘Champi” which means head massage and a massage. The focal points are the neck, face, arms, eyes, scalp and ears. This form of massage has been practiced in India for over 1000 years with slight changes that are unique to different people. Champissage is beneficial to the body and helps you relax while rejuvenating you.
Breema Massage
Breema is a form of massage that helps strengthen your body’s self -defensive and immune system. This is an effective way to enhance the natural balance to the body and mind. Breema does not require any special conditions while being performed. This is different types of stretches and holds with the therapist’s natural weight. Breema stands for “ Being Right Now, everywhere, Every Moment, Myself Actually.” It is considered an indispensible treatment, which unifies the mind, body and spirit.
Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy Massage is similar to a regular, Swedish massage, but different as the receiver is pregnant. It is very important for the therapist to have knowledge of the anatomy of a pregnant woman as well as, not massaging certain parts of her body. You should do your research and make sure your therapist is certified in this type of massage. Usually, the receiver is set up to lie down in a semi-reclining position (you should never use tables that have a hole cut out for the belly). Pregnant Massages can be useful for labor and easing labor pain, increases blood circulation, reduces swelling and provides support for the new mother with physical and emotional strains of mothering

Here is a quick guide to the most popular types of massage therapy to help you figure out which massage

therapy style is right for you. Please note: not all types of massages listed below will be offered by our

partnered therapists. Make sure to read the listed specialties for each member, before booking their service.

Swedish Massage Therapy

This is the most common type of massage therapy performed today.

The goal is to relax the entire body into a state of bliss. Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements with a lubricated oil or lotion. The strokes are usually done in the direction of blood towards the heart.

Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you’ve never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.

Aromatherapy Massage

Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.

The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. Lavender is the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage. Different scents could be used on a per bases treatment. For example: Lavender is commonly used for treating depression, Chamomile is used for sleeping disorders, and Peppermint could be used for mental clarity.

Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.

Hot Stone Massage

Heated-smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The hardness of the stone allows the therapist to address specific area problems with deeper pressure.

The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth from the hot water is comforting and relaxing.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.

Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage. This type of massage is especially helpful for people with chronically tense or tight muscles in the neck, shoulders, or lower back.

Shiatsu (also known as Acupressure)

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence. Therapists apply pressure with the thumbs, fingers and palms to specific areas of the clients body that is determines before the session.

Each point is held for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.

People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards. It is common to have a mixture of tapping, squeezing, and rubbing preformed during this type of massage. This combination is done to try to unblock energy blockages and continue a smooth flow of positive energy throughout the body.

Thai Massage

Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches. This massage is more energizing and rigorous that traditional massages.

During the massage, the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures, almost like yoga. This is done to get the blood flowing into difficult areas. This technique also reduces stress, improves flexibility and range of motion.

Reflexology (also known as Foot Massage)

Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. This technique is a mixture of massaging, squeezing, pushing and pulling. Reflexology is perfect for people who stand on their feet all day.

The idea of this type of massage is that the foot is connected to every part of the human body. By applying certain pressure to different areas in the foot, it will help health and relaxation throughout the body as a whole.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is designed for people who are involved in physical activity such as sports. This type of massage is done in preparation for optimal performance, recovery after difficult events, or to maximize potential during training. You do not have to be a professional athlete to get this type of massage. It is very commonly used by anyone who is physically active. This massage is also good for people with injuries, chronic pain or restricted range of motion.

A combination of techniques is used when performing this type of massage. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage with more pressure. Stretching is commonly done to help to loosen muscles and increase flexibility during this massage.

Trigger Point Massage (also known as Myopoint Therapy)

Trigger point massage is used on muscles that are restricted or tight in a certain area and are affecting the muscles around it. This type of massage is specifically designed to relieve the tension and pain in the isolated area through releasing energizing endorphins and eliminating toxins in the muscle.

This type of massage is known to have immediate effects on reduction of pain in that specified tense area. A lot of times this work is incorporated in with other types of massage.

Back Massage

Some massage clinics and spas offer a 30-minute neck or back massage. If this term is used, you should express to the therapists what types of pain or focused areas you would like worked on. This is a widely used term that could be used to define many of the terms above. Be specific when you are talking with your massage therapist and let them help guide you in the right area of massage for your body and lifestyle.

Ayurevedic Massage

Ayurevedic Massage is a set of massages that originated in India. This type of massage focuses on improving your blood circulation and building up your immune system by flushing out harmful toxins. The ayurvedic massage involves using the technique of mixing various essential oils with uniform gentle strokes on the affected part of the body. Using only upward gentle strokes are applied to the affected part of the body. The special oils used include bauna oil, dhanvataram tailam and maha narayan. This type of massage is considered helpful for people who are weak and do not possess the strength needed to work out or exercise.

Tantra Massage

Tantra Massage is a type of massage that teaches specific techniques to help center feelings of relaxation and to deepen communication and intimacy with your partner. This involves long, slow massaging and a focus on deep breathing. Extra attention is applied to the gluets and thighs because this is the area where we tend to hold onto past emotional, stresses and traumas. You will be instructed on how to pump energy from the root charka through your body.

Muscle Energy Technique

Muscle Energy Technique is a massage that is based on the principle of a theory that explains that muscles are on one side of a joint will always relax to accommodate the contraction of muscles on the other side of that joint when indirect pressure is applied. This principle is called reciprocal inhibition. This would be a good massage for athletes for preventative measures to guard against any future injuries. The procedure for this massage is to contract muscles for a short 5 seconds against an anti force provided by a therapist. This massage helps improve range of motion.

Rolfing Massage

Rolfing is a form of bodywork that is influenced by physical therapy, yoga and osteopathy. The goal of Rolfing is to improve one’s health by bringing parts of the body into the proper alignment. Poor posture, muscle tension and pain, mostly in the neck, upper and lower back are treated when practitioners use their elbows fingers and knuckles to stretch and open fascia (the fibrous layers covering the muscles) to correct the patterns of habitual misalignment of the shoulder, head, pelvis and legs. Rolfing helps open up breathing, improve digestion and balance the nervous system. Treatments are suggested to include about 10 weeks of 1-hour sessions, with each session focusing on a different part of the body.

Watsu Massage

Watsu is a very different type of massage therapy that was developed in 1980 to apply Zen Shiatsu student’s stretches while floating in a warm pool. The name Watsu comes from a combination of “water” and Shiatsu”. There are few specific places where this 98.6-degree (the exact temperature of your body) pool can be found (California, Arkansas, Florida, for example). During Watsu, the massage therapist cradles your body, while you wear floats around your ankles to help you with your buoyancy. The therapist twirls you in circles one way, and then the other, putting your body through a series of passive stretches and twists. The stretching in the buoyancy of water allows the spinal column to be moved in ways that aren’t possible while on land.

Champissage Massage

Champissage is a traditional form of an Indian Head massage. The name is originated by ‘Champi” which means head massage and a massage. The focal points are the neck, face, arms, eyes, scalp and ears. This form of massage has been practiced in India for over 1000 years with slight changes that are unique to different people. Champissage is beneficial to the body and helps you relax while rejuvenating you.

Breema Massage

Breema is a form of massage that helps strengthen your body’s self -defensive and immune system. This is an effective way to enhance the natural balance to the body and mind. Breema does not require any special conditions while being performed. This is different types of stretches and holds with the therapist’s natural weight. Breema stands for “ Being Right Now, everywhere, Every Moment, Myself Actually.” It is considered an indispensible treatment, which unifies the mind, body and spirit.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy Massage is similar to a regular, Swedish massage, but different as the receiver is pregnant. It is very important for the therapist to have knowledge of the anatomy of a pregnant woman as well as, not massaging certain parts of her body. You should do your research and make sure your therapist is certified in this type of massage. Usually, the receiver is set up to lie down in a semi-reclining position (you should never use tables that have a hole cut out for the belly). Pregnant Massages can be useful for labor and easing labor pain, increases blood circulation, reduces swelling and provides support for the new mother with physical and emotional strains of mothering.

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