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How to choose a right type of massage
Honestly, there is no right type of massage. It depends greatly on your needs,level of comfort and personal preference.
Styles used in massage therapy range from long, smooth strokes to short, percussive strokes. Some massage therapists use oils and lotions; others do not. Most massage therapists have clients unclothe for a massage, but some do not. Before you can decide which massage style is best for you, you need to ask yourself a question. Do you simply want a massage for relaxation and stress control? Or do you need symptom relief or help with a certain health condition? Before booking a massage, let the therapist know what you're looking for and ask which style the therapist uses. Many use more than one style. Or the therapist may customize your massage, depending on your age, condition, or any special needs or goals you have. A general guide on the common types of massages are as follows: SWEDISH MASSAGE — This is helpful for those with poor circulation. Swedish massage uses five long strokes — kneading, tapping, sliding, cross fiber and vibrating — to reduce pain and joint stiffness. This is the classic massage that resort-type spas use most often. TRADITIONAL CHINESE MASSAGE, OR TUI NA — Tui Na primarily involves pushing, stretching and kneading muscles. In China, it is not used for relaxation, but for medical purposes — for diseases, headaches and sometimes even as cancer therapy. ACUPRESSURE — Another form of massage, called Zhi Ya in China. This has more friction in the rubs; practitioners often use vibration, heat and herbal formulas. TRIGGER POINT THERAPY — Trigger point uses pressure massage, vibration and electronic devices to remove pain from pressure points in the body. It often is used for headaches and nerve problems. DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE — Generally used to combat severe tension or stress. Deep tissue massage seeks to manipulate muscles below the topmuscles. Athletes suffering frominjuries and those who have chronic pain are the best candidates for deep tissue massage. REXFLEXOLOGY — Reflexology is based on the theory that there are points in the muscular-skeletal system that relate to every gland, organ and system. Thus, manipulation of certain muscles may cure pain or disease in the liver, kidney, circulatory system and even the brain. |