Learning how to properly perform a massage is growing in popularity and more and more people are attending classes to learn the intricacies involved. If you are someone who has considered taking one of the many massage courses on offer you will probably have noticed that there are various different types of massage. Therefore understanding the differences between them will help you make a more informed choice. The last thing you want to do is sign up for something without quite understanding what is involved so here is a quick rundown on the different types.
Swedish Massage
This is probably the most widely known form of massage and when people use the word massage this is what the vast majority of people will imagine. It involves long sweeping strokes, kneading of the muscles, pressure applied with the fingers, thumbs or knuckles to affect the body more deeply and fast movements such as chopping. This latter method however is becoming less popular in recent times. This form of massage is known for its calming nature and is popular in spas and other situations where people come for pampering and relaxation techniques.
Thai Massage
Thai massage techniques are far more strenuous and activating than Swedish massage ones. It is more energising and although it does make your body feel relaxed afterwards it is much less calming and relaxing at the time you receive it. In many ways it is a lot like yoga as the body is stretched and bent into various shapes including being held aloft in mid-air. Some people can be taken aback slightly by it the first time they have a massage but once they have felt the beneficial qualities of it, they return for it more often.
Shiatsu Massage
This form of massage originates from Japan and its literal meaning is finger pressure. Similarly to Thai massage it is performed to align the flow of energy within the body. Due to this it has a spiritual nature to it and is very calming. It is probably best known for treating head pains and back aches and although the pressure placed on the body feels relatively strong it does not leave any pain or soreness afterwards.
Sports Massage
As the name suggests this is conducted on athletes and sportsmen and women. It constitutes a combination of styles and techniques to allow people who experience a lot of physical activity to ensure that their muscles are less susceptible to injuries rather than for relaxation. It is also very beneficial at increasing people’s flexibility, something very important when engaging in a lot of sports.
Deep Tissue Massage
This type of massage is the most intense to receive and it can actually feel quite unpleasant to receive at first. The idea behind it is to apply pressure deep within the body, unknotting muscles and releasing built up pressure. Whilst it can possibly leave you feeling quite sore afterwards, it has great benefits such as treating repetitive strain injuries and muscle pains. If you are learning this type of massage it is important to be aware of the clients’ reactions as people can be a little anxious or worried about receiving it.
