In a typical chair massage, you sit leaning forward into a massage chair with your face nestled in a plush face cradle while a therapist massages your neck, back, and arms. If you’re not already familiar with chair massage, chances are you’ve noticed its use in airports, conferences, or salons. There’s no special preparation or change of clothes required, and you enjoy the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of a massage without having to sneak out of the office for a spa day.
A Swedish massage is designed to relax the entire body by rubbing the muscles in long, gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. But the benefits of Swedish massage go beyond relaxation. It can help increase the level of oxygen in the blood and improve circulation and flexibility. Talk to your therapist about incorporating elements of Swedish massage into your next session.
Therapeutic massage incorporates a variety of advanced modalities that enhance the body’s natural restorative functioning. Light to firm touch is used to release tension, relax muscles, increase blood and lymph circulation, and impart a sense of calm. Therapeutic massage can be used as a collaborative, supportive addition to conventional medical treatment of illness and injury, alleviating pain and stress, aiding soft tissue healing, and revitalizing the body. Also, regular massage can enhance health, providing relaxation, release of muscle tightness, relief from anxiety and tensions, and balancing aspects of body/mind/spirit.
A deep tissue massage may improve circulation, reduce minor aches and pain, increase range of motion, and ease inflammation. According to a study in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, deep tissue massage helped to lower blood pressure after just one session. If you’re looking to rehab an old injury or are dealing with minor aches and pains, talk with your massage therapist about working deep tissue massage into your next visit.
This service is a series of stretches and compressions that incorporate Thai yoga, passive stretching, and PNF. It’s a great introduction to massage therapy and good for both athletes and every day individuals. The massage gently guides you through a total body stretch so all you need to do is relax and breathe. It is recommended that you wear something comfortable and easy to stretch in.
A head massage is designed to relax the mind and encourage circulation. Many times, tension is felt within the head and neck, so head massages can be very effective as a stress reducer. The massage is working to relax tight muscles in the temple and neck regions.
Head massage is said to offer a variety of benefits, which may include stress relief, reduction in headaches and migraines, and a boost in blood flow. When your scalp is massaged, the rest of you relaxes, too.