Healthy massage: The types, benefits, and other FAQs

Whenever we feel back or shoulder pain, the first thing we commonly do is to drink over-the-counter pain meds and rest. We only think of getting a massage as a luxury, after a tiring week at work and we want to indulge ourselves in a lavish therapeutic body massage. But do you know that you can get more from a healthy massage than just relaxation? Here are some relevant pieces of information about healthy massage therapy, its types and all the benefits that you can get form this alternative relaxation technique. If you want to try or learn more about massage therapy from an expert therapist, visit Wayne Massage’s remedial massage clinic in Sydney and try their superb services.

What is a healthy massage?

Massage, in simple terms, is the practice of kneading, rubbing, and smoothing out the parts of the body using firm strokes and grips of the hand. There are specific areas of the body that can benefit from a good massage, and a massage therapist is trained to handle and manage all types and levels of discomfort that can be relieved by massage.

What are the types of healthy massage therapy?

There are many kinds of massage therapy all over the world, each country is known for at least one specialty. Here are some of the different massage therapies that you can try.

• Swedish massage
• Hot stone massage
• Aromatherapy massage
• Deep tissue massage
• Sports massage
• Trigger point massage
• Shiatsu massage
• Reflexology
• Thai massage
• Prenatal or pregnancy massage
• Chair massage

What benefits can one get from a healthy massage?

The primary benefit a patient can get from massage therapy is pain relief and relaxation. If you are in pain of your muscles are sore and aching, trust that the correct massage type will help you feel rejuvenated. There are situations where patients with serious medical conditions like cancer and severe arthritis or fibromyalgia can benefit from relieving their discomfort following a healthy massage session. Moreover, there are also studies that show a good massage therapy can:

• Reduce stress and body tension
• Promote a good sleeping pattern
• Lower high blood pressure
• Ease migraines and tension headaches
• Decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, and fatigue
• Promote a healthier and brighter outlook in life

However, despite these benefits,  there are very few studies that would support the concrete benefits of massage in correcting or solving a patient’s medical condition. Moreover, doctors do not recommend massage to replace any medical regimen or other treatment modalities. These are mere complementary procedures that may relive a patient’s side effects and body discomfort.

When you are looking for massage therapy, be sure to check which type of massage a practitioner can provide. Match that with the benefits you hope to get from the massage session. You may want to chat with several different practitioners to find the one who understands your needs and is used to working with people with similar goals. Be sure also to discuss any allergies, such as to scents or plant oils, so your massage will be relaxing and beneficial without that concern.