Hectic work schedule, commute to work and managing daily chores takes a toll on your health. One of the best ways to escape the chaotic life is to leave your worries at the spa door and indulge in a soothing massage therapy.
Wondering how that helps?
Well, massages not only help us relax and destress but also have a therapeutic effect on our body. They are helpful in reducing pain, easing stiff joints, increasing flexibility and improving blood circulation. Spa therapies have the power of releasing blocked energy and thereby aligning your mind and body with the soul.
Do you get confused every time the therapist hands over the elaborate spa menu to you? Here’s where we have tried to decode the therapies on offer to help you arrive at a wise decision.
1. Swedish Massage
Easy on muscles, swedish massage is best for relaxing and taking you in deep slumber while soft hands are being rubbed on your arms and legs. Probably a best way to introduce yourself to the world of spa, swedish massage is the best fit for first timers. Swedish massage is the best thing to introduce you to the world of spa. This classic therapy involves:
This classic therapy involves:
A) Long, sweeping strokes called effleurage
B) Muscle kneading and rolling, technically known as petrissage, where the muscles are worked on just like kneading dough
C) Friction, where deep pressure is applied to a particular spot with the thumb, fingertips, or knuckles
D) Finally, rhythmic tapping also known as tapotement.
2. Deep Tissue Massage
If you are looking to treat specific pain points or stiffness or improving your posture, Deep Tissue Massage is the one for you. As a regular gym goer, I prefer deep tissue massage as it applies pressure on specific trouble points that helps in resolving knots and adhesion.
3. Balinese Massage
Originated in Bali with influences from various cultures, Balinese therapy uses a variety of techniques that includes skin rolling, kneading and stroking. This is also combined with stretching and acupressure. The massage is gentle and has a soothing effect as it uses aromas of essential oils applied throughout the body. This one is definitely for a holistic experience of various massage techniques.
4. Thai Massage
Do you feel there is stiffness in your muscles? Well, this dry massage will help you ease just that. Thai massage is a combination of acupressure and Indian Ayurvedic principles. A key differentiator here is that Thai Massage does not use any oil. It’s only some stretching and yoga postures under guidance that will help you make your joints move smoothly.
5. Aromatherapy
This therapy uses plant materials and aromatic plant oils that helps in changing your mood and emotions. Essential oils and other aroma compounds are used for your psychological and physical well-being. These therapeutic essential oils can be used through topical application, massage, inhalation or water immersion. There are long strokes and kneading process involved in the therapy which is done with your favourite oil. So, try different types of oils as per your requirements and be aromatic all day.
6. Ayurvedic Massage
Originated in India, this one is surely catching up in the west as well. Encouraging the use of natural plants & herbs, this ancient therapy is sure to detoxify and cleanse your mind and body. and mind you must take this ancient therapy. Muslin clothes filled with hot herbal pudding is pressed against your body for the benefits to soak in. This therapy will not just give you outer body relief but also strengthen your immune system.
7. Shiatsu Massage
To get some energy flow around your body, try this therapy! Involving rhythmic sequence of pressure to be applied, this is an ancient Japanese way of healing. The word ‘Shi’ means fingers and ‘asu’ is pressure. Elbows, knees and feet are also used to press along the body’s network of meridian lines of pressure points which helps in releasing blocked channels of energy. It is one of the best ways to de-stress your body and relieve the pain.
8. Hot Stone Massage
Did you ever think stones can have a therapeutic effect on your mind, body and soul? Well, this is what hot stone massage aims for. Stones are aligned on your body in a specific way on key points by the therapist that has a soothing effect on you. The hot stones have a sedative effect which helps in relieving chronic pain, reduce stress and promote deep relaxation. The therapy works like a magic wand to get rid of aches and pains and improve circulation.
9. Reflexology
Is the zone therapy which involves the massage of feet, hands and ears which will be done with thumb, finger and hands or wooden instruments. The best part of this massage is you will feel the effects of reflexology even without oil and lotions. It increases your nerve functions and boosts the blood circulation in a way that you will reach the deep state of relaxation.
So now that you know what these therapies offer, take your pick and give birth to a new you!