Massage Therapist Specific Pressure Focus Parts Body Techniques

Massage therapists offer many types of massages, each of which is designed to meet a specific need. Some of the most common types of massages are described below.

A "Swedish massage" uses "light" (very slight, without very much strength) or medium pressure to reduce stress and pain while helping people relax. A "deep tissue massage" uses similar techniques as the Swedish massage, but the massage therapist tries to focus on the "deepest" (furthest inside the body) layer of muscles to "release" (let go) "tension" (tightness).

Athletes often choose "sports massage" which focuses on specific parts of the body that are "troublesome" (problematic) in certain sports. For example, sports massage might focus on the shoulder for a golfer, or on the knee for a soccer player.

Some massage therapists specialize in "reflexology." They focus on specific parts of the hands and feet and, by applying pressure to those areas, try to "promote" (encourage; help to happen) relaxation.

"Aromatherapy massage" uses "scented" (with an odor or smell) oils during the massage to achieve certain "outcomes" (results), leaving the client "energized" (with a lot of energy) and relaxed.

When providing "hot stone massage," the therapist places heated "stones" (rocks) on parts of the body to loosen the muscles. The therapist might apply "gentle" (soft; light) pressure over the stones.

Finally, "Thai massage" is becoming increasingly popular. This is a more active form of yoga. The massage therapist moves the client's body into different "postures" (positions), helping the client stretch in order to reduce stress and improve flexibility.