10 Most Popular Types of Massage 6-10

6. Thai Massage

Thai Massage is an interactive manipulation of the body using passive stretching and gentle pressure with the hands and feet. These movements help to adjust the skeletal structure, increase flexibility, relieve muscular and joint tension, stimulate internal organs and balance the body’s energy system.
The effect is both relaxing as well as energising.

As an ancient form of massage, Thai Massage combines other natural therapies such as Shiatsu, Acupressure and Yoga.

Thai Massage is usually performed in quiet meditative atmospheres encouraging the client to let go of physical and emotional restrictions. It facilitates a sense of unity, wholeness and balance. It creates a dynamic physical experience that integrates the body, mind, emotions and spirit.

It is beneficial for young or old, active or inactive, healthy or not so healthy. Thai Massage sessions usually last one to two hours and are performed on a floor mat. Clients wear loose clothing and no oils are used in this style of massage.

7. Pregnancy Massage

Also called Prenatal massage, specially trained practitioners use a combination of Swedish and Remedial Massage techniques, to assist with the tensions and pains experienced during pregnancy
These are often caused by the extra weight and shift in the centre of gravity
There are many physical benefits to Pregnancy Massage, in addition to the nurturing and emotional support provided by the practitioner.
Massage reduces peripheral swelling, soothes the nervous system, helps to prevent insomnia, muscle cramps and back pain.

Pregnancy Massage is beneficial throughout the whole pregnancy. Various techniques are used as the client progresses through the pregnancy and massage may be performed while she is lying on her side, seated, or on a special pregnancy cushion that allows her to lie safely on her stomach.

Regular massage throughout the pregnancy is also said to shorten labour time and the return to optimal fitness after birth.

An Induction Labour Massage can be beneficial to encourage labour to start if a woman goes overdue, although this will depend on presenting and favourable symptoms, and will help with reducing anxiety and encouraging a more relaxed state that may induce labour.

8. Reflexology

Reflexology is based on the principle that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. These parts, known as reflex points can also be found on the hands and other body parts, however, the most commonly treated area is the feet.
Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage!
Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.

9. Sports Massage

Sports massage is a type of massage that is specifically tailored to sporting injuries or ailments. It is not meant to be a relaxing massage and is often quite vigorous at times. Contrary to its name, sports massage is not only utilised by professional sportspeople or people that exercise heavily. It is of benefit to anyone that exercises, even if it is only mild exercise such as regular walking.
The Purpose of Sports Massage

Sports massage is designed to prevent and relieve injuries and conditions that are associated with exercise. It can often be quite strenuous and is meant to relieve and reduce the stress and tension that can build up within the body’s soft tissues while exercising. It can be carried out before, during, or after playing sport or exercising and uses techniques that are designed to increase endurance and performance, to minimise the chances of injury and, if there is an injury, to reduce the recovery time.

A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

10. Back Massage

Some massage clinics and spas offer 30-minute back massages.
If a back massage is not expressly advertised, you can also book a 30- or 40-minute massage and ask the massage therapist to focus on your back. Back massage may be a localised treatment or include the lower back and gluteals or neck depending on what areas are affected.

Massage for Neck and Back pain?

Question: Many people spend long hours at their desks and complain of rounded backs and sore neck and shoulders. What are the best massages for them?
Answer:
Acute pain can make it painful to touch an inflamed area. Gentle and relaxing Swedish massage can be ideal to initially reduce tension and soothe tight muscles. Deep tissue, Remedial or Sports Massage are used for chronic tight or painful muscles, postural problems, and repetitive strain. This type of massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.