Massage therapy has secured its spot on the most effective feel-good ways list. If you’re under a lot of stress, it could be precisely what you need to blow off steam. This is because it triggers the release of endorphins, which make you happy.
In addition, massage therapy can minimize muscle pain and enhance your immune system’s functions. To make the most of massage therapy, consider these four relaxing techniques that top rated massage places offer.
Deep Tissue Massage
Many top rated massage places offer deep tissue massages. This technique targets chronic muscle tension from musculoskeletal issues like sports injuries, falls, and strains. One of the things that render it more relaxing is its intensity. Usually, this type of massage uses deep, slow strokes. Additionally, it targets specific body parts, such as the hips, neck, shoulders, or back.
A deep tissue massage isn’t just relaxing – it also presents multiple health benefits. For instance, it can improve circulation, resulting in improved lymphatic flow. As a result, this balances your body fluids and protects you against infections. At the same time, this technique can boost recovery after accidents and help treat musculoskeletal conditions like back pain.
So, how often should you visit your favorite spa or parlor for a deep tissue massage? That will depend on various factors, including your condition. For example, when suffering from chronic muscle pain, you can benefit from receiving this message often. On the other hand, once or twice a month will do if you’re trying to relieve stress.
Swedish Massage
A Swedish massage is a fantastic way to unwind. This technique typically involves a set of actions, like rolling, kneading, percussion, tapping, and vibration. Like a deep tissue massage, it relieves pain and promotes blood circulation. However, the two techniques differ as a Swedish massage uses lighter and longer strokes. In addition, it can be used for pleasure, not just pain relief.
A Swedish massage is ideal when you need temporary relaxation. With regular sessions, the technique can work wonders on mental health issues like depression. Besides, you can also opt for this massage if you’re pregnant; it may help deal with mood swings. But you must take precautions to get the most out of it. Make sure to tell your massage therapist about your condition so they can better accommodate your needs and identify the best positions to use.
Shiatsu Massage
A shiatsu massage is a gentle technique that minimizes tension and re-energizes your body to boost relaxation. When offering it, massage therapists use their thumbs, hands, and other body parts to apply pressure along different acupuncture points. One thing that sets it apart from other techniques, including the Swedish massage, is its fluid, rhythmic touch. This allows the Japanese practice to stimulate the body’s self-healing capabilities.
Unlike some techniques that are done on a table, a shiatsu massage is performed on the floor on a mat. It can take around 30 minutes, which is not as long as a Swedish massage, which lasts about 45 minutes. Nevertheless, this technique requires oils or lotions to enable the therapist’s hands to glide faster over the skin.
When receiving a shiatsu massage, you don’t have to strip entirely. Even so, you should wear a thin and comfortable piece of clothing. Also, note that although this technique can help with common issues like posture problems, joint pain, fatigue, insomnia, and low libido, it’s not for everyone. If you have conditions like blood cancer, active skin lesions, chicken pox, high blood pressure, bone fractures, and uncontrolled diabetes, steer clear of it.
Aromatherapy Massage
You can also get aromatherapy massages at top rated massage places. What’s so alluring about this relaxation technique? Like other types of massage, it reduces stress and anxiety, minimizes muscle tension, and helps with insomnia. Additionally, the technique may ease labor pains and help cancer patients deal with the side effects of chemotherapy.
To perform an aromatherapy massage, the therapist will use alternate hands to gently squeeze your flesh between their thumbs and fingers, releasing it later to form a milking type of stroke. More often than not, they’ll use essential oils to enhance the technique’s benefits. Popular options include lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, cedarwood, geranium, and chamomile.
Unfortunately, some people may develop allergic reactions to the oils used during aromatherapy massage. As such, they may exhibit symptoms like redness, itchiness, hives, swelling, and rashes. To be on the safer side, let your therapist know if your skin is sensitive to certain products so they can avoid using them.
Relaxing Techniques Offered at Top-Rated Massage Places: In Closing
You can enjoy these four effective techniques when you visit top-rated massage places in various parts of the world. To benefit from them, be open to the massage process, relax, and breathe normally. Moreover, only take off as much clothing as you’re comfortable with and show up on time. Then, after your session, drink plenty of water to rehydrate your muscles.