One of the wonderful things about massage therapy is the number of modalities and approaches therapists can use within the realm of bodywork. There is a type of bodywork to suit every physical situation or need. But if you're new to massage therapy, which type should you choose? The amount of information available can be overwhelming to the novice.
Acupressure
An ancient Chinese technique involves the therapist using his fingers to press key points on the skin to release muscle tension and promote circulation and energy flow. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same points, but acupuncture involves needles. The pressure restores balance to the body and treats ailments such as headaches, menstrual cramps and constipation.
I tend to use acupressure points in most of my sessions, and am in the process of developing a specific acupressure session for the head and face to help treat headaches, allergies, and sinus issues, as well as improve circulation to the skin of the face to promote healthy, youthful skin.
If you've always been interested in acupuncture, but have been nervous about the use of needles, a massage session with emphasis on acupressure points would be great for you.
Swedish Massage
This is probably the most common form of massage in the US. Its main goal is relaxation and improved circulation. The therapist applies product to the skin and uses flowing strokes and kneading movements to relieve tension from the muscles.
Perfect for the beginner, or someone looking primarily to reduce stress. Just allowing yourself an hour in a quiet, dimly-lit room, while your muscles are treated to a gentle, flowing pressure can go a long way. And the products I use are natural and extremely moisturizing, so there's an added benefit of skin nourishment.
Deep Tissue Massage
This type of massage is more vigorous and uses various styles to loosen the muscles. It helps break patterns of tension, relieves chronic pain, including inflammation-related pain such as tendonitis and improves range of motion.
This modality includes Medical Massage and NMT (Neuromuscular Therapy), is very firm and strong in its approach, and is the best treatment for someone experiencing a specific chronic condition, for pain management, or who benefits more from very firm pressure. Deep tissue is for someone who is accustomed to bodywork. Some sessions might treat only a portion of the body in the space of an hour, and for many conditions, a series of sessions is the best course of action.
Sports Massage
This treatment incorporates several massage techniques which is great for athletes. It keeps the body flexible, increases performance and assists in rehabilitation from an injury.
Some mistakenly think of sports massage as deep tissue, but true sports massage sessions are actually lighter work, with passive stretching. It's intended to warm the body prior to an athletic event, or to help the body cool down after an event, and can help prevent injuries. A sports massage is perfect the week of a big event, and within 48 hours after an event.
Hot Stone Therapy
During this therapy, heated stones are placed strategically on the body which dilates blood vessels and gets blood and oxygen flowing into tense areas. It can feel like a body “rush.” The soothing heat can also prepare the body for deep-tissue work as well as alleviate PMS symptoms.
Hot stones are good for someone who likes heat, and enjoys a decent amount of pressure. I use the stones as a tool, the added heat helping get into deeper tissue. It can be a fantastically relaxing experience, the weight of the stones acting as a grounding element. This is a session everyone should try once!
Aromatherapy Massage
The therapist incorporates essential oils extracted from herbs, flowers and roots into the massage. They select the proper oils based on a particular physical condition and blend them into a massage oil or lotion. The end result is a relaxing massage tailored to your individual needs.
I include customized aromatherapy with therapeutic essential oils in any bodywork session.
Reiki
This therapy is an Eastern method meaning “universal life energy.” It brings healing energy to the organs and glands in order to bring the body back into balance and help prevent disease. The massage practitioner places their hands on or just above the body to realign chakras and dissolve toxic substances from your physical and emotional being. People often feel warmth or tingling sensations during Reiki.
Reiki is non-invasive, so can be a wonderful treatment for anyone experiencing an illness or injury that prevents them from receiving more hands-on work. Also perfect for the elderly and children.
Click this link to read about all Jaya Bodywork treatments and rates.
I would be happy to discuss a course of treatment for any situation. Send an email here!
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