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Archive for the ‘Massage Therapists’ Category

Types of Massage Therapy

01 May

There are Many types of Effective Massage Therapy available

Massage therapy has been practiced for hundreds of years.

If you need to relief from muscle pain or stress, you can choose from one of the ten best types of massage therapy around mentioned below:

  1. There is deep tissue massage. This type is designed to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Here, the therapist will use slow strokes better known as friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. The distinctive feature of deep tissue massage is that it is used on those that have chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems and recovery from injury. You will often feel sore for the next day or two.
  2. For women that are expecting, they can opt for pregnancy massage. It is designed to relieve stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pins as well as reduce anxiety and depression.
  3. Next is aromatherapy and the reason why it is called such is because one or more scented plant oils are used during the session. You will just have to select the oil you want to use. In fact, the most popular one is lavender as it is well suited for stress related conditions together with an emotional component.
  4. There is also hot stone massage. Here, smooth, heated stones are placed on certain parts of the body to help loosen those tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. At times, the massage therapist may also apply gentle pressure especially for those who have muscle tension.
  5. Then there is sports massage that is designed for people involved in sports activities. This type is designed not only for professional athletes but for everyone since it helps prevent and treat physical injuries.
  6. Reflexology is also known as foot massage because it involves applying pressure to certain points on the feet. Those who practice this believe that the foot corresponds to certain organs and systems so if you are able to work on that, you have also done it in the whole body.
  7. There is also Back massage which usually lasts 30 minutes. Unlike reflexology that focuses on the feet because it represents special points in the body, this one simply relieves tension in the back caused by lifting heavy objects or driving for long periods of time.
  8. Number 8 is Swedish massage therapy. This is the most common type of massage in the US because an is very gentle and relaxing. Here, the therapist will use long strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil.
  9. Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage therapy.  The therapist will use localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for 2 to 8 second designed to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. Those who have tried it say that it is relaxing yet firm. The best part is that there is no soreness afterwards.
  10. Lastly is Thai massage is similar to Shiatsu because it aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Part of the session also includes compressions and stretches as you are moved in a variety of postures just like yoga but in this case, you don’t do anything except go with the flow.


 

Choosing a Massage Therapist

24 Apr

What to look for when Choosing the right Massage Therapist for your needs

Thai Massage at Echo Valley Ranch & Spa

Choosing a massage therapist is just as important as choosing the type of massage you receive. When it comes to finding a massage therapist you will want to make sure that the therapist is well trained and has the proper credentials.

One governing board that many massage therapist’s are certified by is the Australian Massage Therapy Association. When reading about a therapist on the Internet, look for therapists with diplomas or advanced diplomas who would have been trained for 1-2 years. They are likely to have studied in a government-accredited massage college.

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The right massage therapist is one who:

  • Listens to yours needs and makes notes before the massage
  • Discusses with you what areas of your body you would like massaged
  • Asks what you’d like to get out of the massage
  • Gives you privacy when disrobing and drapes you adequately with towels the areas not being treated
  • Advises you on what to expect after the massage and what you need in the future

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Some of the most common types of massage that you can expect to come across while looking for a massage therapist are:

  • Remedial/sports/Deep-tissue massage
    Remedial massage is all about fixing the body. Your therapist will discuss with you any bodily complaints you may have, conduct an assessment, followed by a massage specific to your needs.
  • Relaxation
    Massage is one of the most soothing and healthy ways to relax. A relaxation massage uses techniques that soothe the body, refresh the skin, rejuvenate your spirit and leave you in a state of bliss!
  • Seated massage (corporate or event/function)
    A seated massage is supremely relaxing and rejuvenating and can also help to loosen up muscles and relieve headaches.
  • Pregnancy massage
    Pregnancy places unique demands on your body. Changes in hormones, changes in posture and simply carrying the weight of a baby all add up to a lot of hard work for your body.
 
 
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