Aromatherapy massage

The aromatherapy massage is a massage that uses scented plant oils to address specific needs. Oils can have different effects on stress-related conditions in particular, as they add an emotional component. When you inhale the scent, messages are sent to your brain’s limbic system – the part that controls emotions and influences hormones and your nervous system. Lavender is perhaps the most common oil used in aromatherapy massage, it has a calming effect, and the same goes for geranium and chamomile. Rosemary is said to be cleansing and energising, while tea tree, eucalyptus and pine is decongesting.

Deep tissue massage

This is a massage that targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. People benefiting from a deep tissue massage are those struggling with chronically tight and painful muscles, repetitive strain and postural problems. Stiff necks and sore shoulders, often a result of too many hours spent in front of a computer, can be relieved by having regular deep tissue massages. You should expect to feel sore and stiff for a couple of days after a deep tissue massage, as the massage therapist concentrates on areas of pain and uses direct deep pressure or friction here.

Neuromuscular massage

The neuromuscular massage is distinguished from other types of massage in that a quasi-static pressure is applied to the skin with the aim of stimulating specific areas of skeletal muscle. Often these areas of muscle are myofascial trigger points. Once the locations of these points are found, force has to be applied perpendicular to the skin surface if muscle is to be stimulated. This way of massaging forms the basis of aromatherapy massage and is also referred to as "trigger point" therapy. The overall effect of this massage is to restore the balance of the autonomic nervous system.

Lymphatic massage

This massage is a technique used to help increase lymph flow – using a very light pressure combined with soft pumping movements in the direction of the lymph nodes. A lymph drainage massage is particularly useful in detoxifying the body and to boost the immune system, and can be helpful in cases of edema, sports injury or for people experiencing a sluggish immune system or those suffering from a lack of energy.

Shiatsu massage

This method of massage is a form of Japanese bodywork focused on the meridians (channels) of the body, aiming to relieve "blockages" through pressure on certain points. It can be performed while a person is fully clothed and requires no needles such as in acupuncture. Typically, a point is held for two to eight seconds to improve energy flow and regain balance.

Thai massage

This type of massage is similar to shiatsu – aligning energy flow in the body by gently pressing on specific points. But a Thai massage also includes stretches and compressions – your therapist will move and stretch you into a variety of postures. It can be compared to yoga, but you don’t have to do any work as your therapist will do it for you. Known benefits of a Thai massage is improvement in flexibility and elimination of stress.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a method involving the practice of massaging, squeezing or pushing on parts of the feet, or sometimes the hands and ears, with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body - or just to improve general health. Reflexology can also be seen as a treatment that can help your body heal itself after an injury, illness, trauma or stress. Reflexology is a form of zone therapy and the idea is that areas on the foot correspond to areas of the body, and that by manipulating these one can improve general health through one's energy flow. Working well to relax your mind and body, reflexology has been proven to be effective for back pain, migraines, fertility problems, arthritis, sleep disorders, sports injuries, hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders and stress-related conditions. Most patients say they feel calmer and more relaxed after a treatment, and enjoy the non-invasive and safe approach of this alternative practice.

Hot stone massage

Hot and smooth lava rocks help to decrease tension in this massage by loosening tight muscles and balancing energy centres in the body. Your therapist uses the hot stones as a massage tool, applying gentle pressure with them. Heated to more or less 45 degrees, the stones slide up and down your skin, heating and soothing away tension as they go. And the warmth they give is very comforting as well.

 

Pregnancy massage

The prenatal massage is used to target symptoms related to pregnancy – such as stress, swelling, aches and pains, indigestion, anxiety and depression. Becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers, a pregnancy massage is performed by therapists who are certified and know how to support a pregnant woman’s body correctly during the massage.

Side-effects of massage

Benefits of massage are plentiful. Most people feel relaxed and pampered after a massage, both mentally and physically. Sometimes, however, the side-effects of a massage can be quite unpleasant, depending on the condition your body is in and how often you are getting a massage. The massage works to remove toxins and increase blood supply, and the toxins are released into the blood stream. This can sometimes result in typical detox symptoms such as sinus problems, headaches and even nausea. If you don't get a massage often, it is possible that you'll feel bruised the next day – especially if you have a deep tissue massage. It is advisable to request a massage that's milder to start off with, and take it from there. But keep in mind that side-effects of massage are only temporary, so you’ll feel good again within a couple of days. And when it comes to aromatherapy massage, be aware of allergies to certain oils.