Massage techniques as we know them, go back a long way. References to humans anointing with oils or rubbing to enhance health appear in writings from the most ancient times. Humans come in all shapes and sizes and have many different problems associated with them, and these techniques have evolved and improved over time. The variations are countless.
There's no one simple technique for everything. Therapists vary what they do, to best deal with the needs of the client, often using a wide variety of techniques during a massage.
Chair Massage
Massage done with the client sitting in a specially designed chair. The client's head, shoulders and arms which are the parts worked on, are easily accessed by the therapist. The most common technique used in chair massage is acupressure where finger pressure is used to release tight muscles or discharge trigger points. The therapist will also use tapping, vibration and light beating to shoulders and back.
Baby Massage
Baby, or infant massage techniques are completely different to any other form of massage. Tiny circular movements or soft stroking are used, in keeping with the size and state of the baby. These may be done with the baby clothed or not.
Sports Massage
Athletes, before and after sporting events, have massage to treat existing injury or prevent it in the future. Sports massage techniques are different to those of regular massage. In the interests of a quick result, massage may be deep and painful. Percussive techniques, which are short, rhythmic and light movements using alternate hands, tap, clap or beat the tissue, are often used to encourage muscles to relax.
Myofascial Release
In order to restore proper movement to joints and muscles, Myofascial Release incorporates gentle stretching of the tissue, particularly around joints, with normal massage techniques. The movements used are very slow and thoughtful, so the client receives an extremely relaxing treatment.
Hot Stone Massage
Ancient massage technique also called Pohaku, Kahuna, Temple or Hawaiian. For Hot Stone Massage techniques are based around the use of well-shaped stones, selected for size and shape. They are used to make long flowing or deep circular movements to relax and release tight tissue. As well as being used to massage, the carefully heated stones are strategically placed on and under the client's body; these areas then have time to relax while other parts of the body are being massaged.
Relaxation Massage
Often called Swedish massage, the techniques used are all gentle, regardless of their style. Movements tend to be long, sweeping strokes, quite superficial and unfailingly relaxing. There is no focus on remedial techniques. With the addition of essential oils, this may become an aromatherapy massage.
Deep Tissue Massage
Unlike the light stroking movements of relaxation massage, techniques used in Deep Tissue massage are much heavier. This doesn't necessarily make them painful. If movements are slow and careful, whether pressure or kneading movements, the deep layers of tissue can be accessed. The increased blood supply and lymphatic circulation that occurs can reduce pain and increase movement.
Acupressure Massage
Relatively light pressure applied to trigger points or meridians using fingers, or specially designed tools. The acupressure massage technique is particularly useful because it can be used by anyone, without extensive training. They only need to know where to find the points to be treated. The pressures are applied through clothing, and no oil is used.
This is just a small sample of the various massage techniques available to therapists. They can all be used interchangeably as needed, to best suit the client being treated. Each of these modalities includes a link where you can find a therapist trained in these massage techniques.
