Day Spas Massage Techniques

When you think of “massage” at a day spa, the image you have is probably of a masseuse or masseur providing a soothing, relaxing massage. While some of the massages available at a day spa are soothing and relaxing, there are several types of massage, each practiced by trained, licensed massage therapists. That may take a little of the romance out of it, but from a health standpoint, it’s much better to have licensed therapists working on your muscles.

Swedish massage is what we typically see on TV and in the movies. This type of  bodywork uses long, slow strokes. This is a soothing, relaxing massage. It’s not intended to work out knots in your muscles or relieve pain. This is one of the most pleasant of the massage techniques you’ll find at the day spa.

Aromatherapy massage uses one or more essential oils during the session. You choose the fragrances you’d like to use. Lavender is very popular because it helps you relax.

Deep tissue massage is never mistaken for the gentle Swedish massage. It is used on people with chronically tight muscles, and on those who are recovering from injury, in some cases. You’ll feel like you’re being kneaded like bread, and stay sore for a couple of days, but then you’ll feel terrific.

You might enjoy a hot stone massage, particularly if you’re feeling tight through your back. Heated smooth stones are laid on certain parts of the body. The massage therapist may apply light pressure to the stones, for those with a lot of tightness in the muscles.

Reflexology is massage on the soles of the feet, applying pressure to certain parts of the foot, which are thought to affect different parts of the body.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more exotic (in a good way), and your day spa offers them, you might try Shiatsu or Thai massage.

In Shiatsu, the massage therapist basically does acupuncture with fingers. It’s very relaxing does not leave you sore, as deep tissue can.

Thai massage is very similar to Shiatsu, but may use stretches and compressions, not just the fingers. It almost seems like yoga in some ways, but you’re moved, not moving.