MOST COMMON MASSAGE THERAPIES

Listed below are several types of Massage Therapy techniques and their meaning. If your questions are not answered regarding a technique or practice please e-mail Rose@YourBodyNeeds.com. Your Body Needs will be happy to reply to any questions you have regarding massage techniques or practice.

Swedish (Available at Your Body Needs (YBN))
Overview: The most common massage technique and is often what most people refer with the term “massage.” It is also referred to as Full Body and/or Stress Reduction Massage. A combination of strokes are used with anywhere from light to moderate pressure.
Good For: The treatment addresses the whole body - face, arms, abdomen, legs, hands/feet, back, and buttocks. The goal of the Swedish massage is to improve your circulation, address tired muscles, release toxins and calm the nervous system. If you want to relax and allow your body to unwind, this is a wonderful choice. If there is an area of the body which you do not want massaged tell your therapist.
Not For: This is not the treatment of choice if you are in chronic pain cycle and you want muscular relief. See deep tissue.

Deep Tissue (Available at YBN)
Overview: Releases the chronic (ongoing) patterns of tension in your body.
Good For: Areas of the body which are chronically tight, painful or very tired. Deep Tissue is also administered to release excess scar tissue, injury recovery, postural problems or when working with specific conditions. It is called deep tissue, because it focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue, tendons or ligaments. “Deep Tissue” does not automatically mean “painful.” Although at times, you may feel slight discomfort, the goal is not to induce pain. If the pressure is too much, tell your therapist. The goal of deep tissue is pain relief and better range of motion.
Not For: People who are looking for a Swedish massage. Those that want only light pressure throughout the massage.

Aromatherapy (Available at YBN)
Overview: The addition of essential oils to the massage lotion. Essential oils come from botanical materials. Their chemical composition contains therapeutic properties.
Good For: Treatment varies depending on goals - stress, relaxation, muscular relief, sleep, depression, to uplift or energize. Both client and therapist decide which oils will best suit the treatment.
Not For: Some oils are not used in pregnancy. Skin irritation is rare, however if you have sensitive skin best to skin patch test. Some oils are contraindications for certain conditions. One example is rosemary oil should not be used if high blood pressure is present. Not all massage therapists have a good understanding of aromatherapy. If you are considering an aromatherapy massage, question your therapist’s knowledge on the subject. Some establishments will charge extra for aromatherapy however has little to no knowledge about proper use. See the Aromatherapy page for more information on aromatherapy and reputable organizations.

Trigger Point Therapy (also known as Myotherapy or Neuromuscular Therapy) (Available at YBN)
Trigger point Therapy applies concentrated finger pressure to "trigger points" (painful irritated areas in muscles) to break cycles of spasm and pain. Trigger point therapy is often a technique used in deep tissue work rather than a stand alone therapy.

Myofascial Release (Available at YBN)
Myofascial Release focuses purely on superficial fascia - connective tissue surrounding the muscles and the entire body. Myofascial Release unwinds the restricted or twisted fascia. Myofascial release technique requires the therapist to go incredibly slow with movements. Myofasical release is often used with other methods of treatment in massage.

Chair Massage (Available at YBN)
Overview: The massage is administered while the client is clothed and seated in a specifically designed chair. It does not require a client to get undressed or lay on a table.
Good For: A quick massage especially targeted for upper and lower back. A typical chair massage last between 15- 20minutes. Very convenient. A typical chair massage last between 15- 20minutes. You often see these stationed at on-site locations such as airports, malls, events or businesses. A popular trend is hiring a massage therapist to administer on-site chair massage either at in- home parties or work functions.
Not For: People with problem knees may sometimes find it difficult to position comfortably on the chair. Not all areas of the body are easily accessibly during a chair massage. Not good for feet, face, lower leg massage.

Pregnancy Massage or Prenatal Massage. (Available at YBN)
Prenatal massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Techniques are modified to support the mother’s body and pregnancy needs. Women are positioned for comfort with bolsters and pillows. Pregnancy massage helps decrease swelling and is excellent for relieving tired and sore muscles and reducing stress and anxiety.

Hot Stone Massage (Available at YBN)
Overview: A Swedish massage with the added use of heated stones placed on certain points on your body. The goal is to warm and loosen the muscles.
Good For: Hot Stone massage is a relaxing and comforting experience. Although some pressure may be applied with the stones, this is a very gentle massage. Warming and calming. Improves circulation.
Not For: Deep tissue needs. This will not suit someone looking for good firm pressure.

Shiatsu and Acupressure
Oriental-based systems of finger-pressure which treat special points along acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for several seconds to
improve the flow of energy and aid in the re-balancing the body’s equilibrium.

Reflexology
Reflexology focuses on the hands and feet to affect other areas of the body. It involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot or hand that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is different from a simple foot or hand massage. If you want proper reflexology, you must contact someone certified in Reflexology. Not all massage therapists have this certification.

Cranio-Sacral
Cranio-Sacral is a technique for finding and correcting cerebral and spinal imbalances or blockages that may cause sensory, motor or intellectual dysfunction.