Massage Therapy: What is Different from Other Types

Massage has been practiced for many centuries as a way to heal. The first evidence of its healing effects can be traced from the time of the Ancient Egyptians. While there are a variety of types and styles of massage that are available today, Shiatsu remains a niche practice. Shiatsu massage is becoming more popular in the United States, particularly in spas, massage centres, and other establishments offering a variety of massages.

Shiatsu is also referred to as it's Tui Na massage. The original source Shiatsu is a relatively pseudoscientific kind of Japanese massage that is based on the traditional theories of Chinese medicine. It is a method of regulating the flow of Qi (pronounced chee) and also referred to as "chi" in Chinese it is believed to boost health and vitality. The origins of shiatsu were in China but was eventually brought to Japan where it was applied as a healing technique. However, having been popularized by Japanese master practitioner Tokujiro Namikoshi in the last decade of the 20th century, shiatsu today is largely a product of the East Asian country. The basis of this massage is the theory that qi will cause injury to soft tissues, and in particular the muscles. The theory is comparable to that of acupuncture which is based on the belief that targeted pressure can improve the flow of energy through the body.

Shiatsu massage is typically performed by two therapists. One Therapist applies pressure to muscles with their hands while another gently manipulates soft tissues using their elbows. One therapist usually works on the entire body while the other is focused on the legs. With their elbows the Shiatsu practitioners can knead, press, and massage various areas of the body. In fact, Shiatsu massages can be performed on bare hands and the soles of the feet. Because most massages are performed with a clothed body the client must take off all clothing prior to when they begin.

Prenatal massage is a different possibility for massage therapy. Prenatal massage employs gentle pressure to help relax pregnant women. Additionally, it can be utilized to ease the pain of labor. A prenatal massage session can be as long as an hour. Prenatal massages are typically preferred by a trained professional who can decide how the duration of the massage is likely to take.

Reflexology Massage is another great option to ease chronic pain without needles. Reflexology is a type of massage that concentrates on locating the points on the hands and feet which trigger energy flow. Endorphins are natural chemicals released when the body is experiencing energy flow. Reflexology can be beneficial to people suffering from chronic pain due to the fact that it improves circulation. Additionally, it can help ease tension in muscles.

Swedish massage employs circular movements that feel like rubbing or caringssing. Swedish massage is the use of a long rectangle stroke and is often used to relax and alleviating tension. The Swedish massage is done in many different ways. The strokes can be gentle or hard, gentle or deep or even circular, or back and forth.

Kneading can be a different form of massage that a massage therapist might offer. Kneading is similar to rubbing lightly around your body using your fingers. Typically, you employ your fingers to massage and knead in long, sweeping movements. Kneading can stimulate certain points on the body using gentle strokes or applying pressure repeatedly on a single spot. Kneading can help relax and soothe frayed muscles.

Reflexology is often compared with prenatal massage uses the same soothing technique but uses an entirely different method. Reflexology utilizes pressure points to stimulate specific regions of the body. If you suffer from a medical condition, such as the fibromyalgia and diabetes, reflexology can aid in relieving symptoms. No matter if you suffer from a medical condition or not, a skilled therapist can create a soothing efficient program that will relieve pain and improve circulation, encourage relaxation and increase energy.