What are the 6 different types of massage & their benefits?

What is massage?

Massage will relax, revive and heal you; both physically and mentally.

Massage is the manipulation of soft tissue to promote health and well being. This involves rubbing and kneading muscles and connective tissues by applying pressure, of varying degrees, to ease out tension and soreness. By making the soft tissues more pliable, circulation and blood flow are increased in the area and this achieves healing effects.

What are the benefits of massage?

Massage has been shown to relieve pain and discomfort, increase blood flow and promote emotional relaxation by releasing tension in muscles and increasing flexibility. Massage also reduces stress and anxiety, improves sleep and can even enhance immune system function.

What can massage therapy help to treat?

• Sports injuries
• Post-surgery rehabilitation
• Anxiety and stress
• Pregnancy discomforts
• Chronic health conditions
• Headaches
• Back pain
• Arthritis

Types of massage and their benefits

There are many forms of massage and it can be difficult to know which type of massage is suitable. To find out a little more about each style of massage, read the summaries below to find out which is best for you.

Swedish / Relaxation Massage

Swedish, or Relaxation, massages mainly focus on relaxing you. This involves warming up the muscles and using long strokes to release pent up tension. Essential oils and soothing music add to the calming and relaxing experience.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is focused on injuries, imbalances or strain brought on by sport or strenuous exercise. Muscles are stretched and stimulated to reduce tension. Sports massage can be implemented for maintenance or as rehabilitation and recovery.

Remedial Massage

Remedial massage holistically treats injuries, and chronic conditions as well as general aches and motion issues. A variety of techniques can be used to target varied types of discomfort and provide a full body remediation.

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage targets the deeper layers of the muscles with more pressure than  Swedish Massage. Thumbs, forearms and elbows are used to release deep musculature tension and break up scar tissue as well as treat numerous chronic conditions and even reduce blood pressure.

Trigger Point Therapy

Trigger Point Therapy is used to release painful, tight muscles, which can be felt as a ‘knot’ in the muscle and is particularly sore or painful when it is pushed. This method is typically sustained pressure with the fingers, thumb or elbow into the muscle until it releases.

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy Massage helps relieve many of the discomforts, aches and pains associated with pregnancy. Similar to Swedish / Relaxation massage techniques, the massage therapist will use long strokes to relax muscles and increase blood flow; focusing on the lower back, glute and abdominal areas. Pregnancy massage can reduce anxiety, improve sleep and, during labour, assist with pain management.