The standard massage treatment has flourished recently to include much more specific treatments concentrating on various areas of the body. You may not be aware that there is most probably a massage treatment for your particular ailment.

Swedish massage therapy: This is the most common type to be offered by masseurs because it is very gentle and relaxing. The masseuse will use long strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. The result is a refreshed, calm and renewed feeling for the body.

Aromatherapy: The reason why it is called such is because one or more scented plant oils are used during the session. During the session, you will 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.

Hot stone massage: Heated smooth stones are placed on certain parts of the body to help loosen those tight muscles and balance energy points in the body. At times, the masseuse may also apply gentle pressure especially for those who have muscle tension.

Deep tissue massage: The massage technique is specifically designed to target the deep layers of body muscle and connective tissue. Here, the masseuse 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.

Shiatsu: This massage therapy originated from Japan. Here, the masseuse will use localised 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.

Thai: This 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.

Pregnancy: For women that are expecting, they can opt for a specialist pregnancy massage. The benefits it was designed for are the relief of aches and pains, reduce swelling, relieve stress and reduce the ailments of anxiety and depression.

Reflexology: The can also be known as foot massage as the procedure involves applying pressure to parts of the foot. It is believed that the foot in fact corresponds to certain body organs and systems so if this is worked on therefore the whole body will benefit.

Sports: This is designed for people involved in sports activities. This type is designed not only for professional athletes but anyone involved in sport since it helps prevent and treat physical injuries.

Back & Neck: Unlike reflexology that focuses on the feet because it represents special points in the body, this one simply relieves tension in the back and neck caused by lifting heavy objects or driving for long periods of time.

By: Michael Tasker
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Our body is like a car engine. To function properly, it needs all the essential parts to perform efficiently. All the parts are subject to wear and tear. In order to survive, our body needs to have a regular maintenance. With today high stress lifestyle, our bodies are always in demand to perform optimally. If you don't take care of your body, it will break down in many ways and leave you unable to perform your daily activities.

It's ironic that many people who own cars do remember to send their cars for regular maintenance. Some even wash their cars everyday and give them a good wax so that they look shiny and brand new. But when it comes to taking care of their own bodies, they've somehow forgotten it.

So if your car deserves your care, don't you think your body deserves more?

Below are some tips to pamper your body and massage away your stress. Yes, a good massage can do wonders.

If you're a busy professional with hectic work schedule, find time to pamper your body by giving it a massage therapy. A professional masseur would have many massage techniques up his sleeve. A good massage therapy could help you get rid of stress and keep you going for a whole week of hectic workloads.

Take some time off during your lunch break and visit a health spa near you and inquire on services that will help in stress relief. You may also want to ask about the duration of a massage therapy. Budget and schedule your time wisely so that it won't crash with your important work schedule.

Types of massages.

Perhaps knowing some basic knowledge about the types of massage and techniques available in various health spas near you would be useful in helping you to make a decision as to which service is best for you.

1. Shiatsu. This massage technique originated in Japan and had been in practice for long time even before acupressure and acupuncture arrived in that country. Shiatsu involves the use of fingers and palms to apply pressure in certain areas of your body to improve blood flow. This type of massage is perfect for those who always feel tense, headaches and stiffness in the back. It helps your body circulatory system and is great for getting rid of stress.

2. Thai Massage. This kind of massage is good to improve motion and flexibility. It applies more pressure than the traditional shiatsu and involves a lot of stretching like yoga, but the best part is, you will be subject to those positions without exerting effort - the therapist will guide your body from one posture to another.

3. Hot Stone Massage. This technique uses heated stones to massage your body. They are placed in certain points in your body to loosen up tight muscles and help blood flow. These are not ordinary stones, they are Basalt stones or volcanic rocks. This type of massage is great for relieving muscle pains.

4. Aromatherapy. This massage technique uses scents from plant essential oils to provide relaxation during a massage therapy session. It's a great therapy for those who have emotional stress. tends to choose aromatherapy compared to other massage techniques. You can choose the essential oils but usually lavender aromatherapy is used as it can give you a relaxed state of mind. You feel very relaxed and sleepy during the session but energized afterward.

These are just some ways you can take care and indulge your body in a luxury. These stress relief massage techniques are very common in alternative healthcare.

By: Leon Lioe
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