Which Massage is Best for Full-Body Relaxation?

From Swedish Massage to Deep Tissue Massage & Hot Stone Massage - learn about 7 types of massages & how they can help you achieve full-body relaxation.

Which Massage is Best for Full-Body Relaxation?

Are you looking for the best massage to relax your body? Massage therapy has many incredible mental and physical health benefits, and there are a variety of types of massage that can help you achieve relaxation. From Swedish massage to deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, sports massage, reflexology, shiatsu massage, Thai massage, and prenatal massage, there are many options to choose from. In this article, we'll explore the differences between these types of massages and how they can help you achieve full-body relaxation. Swedish massage is the most common type of massage.

It uses light to moderate pressure and combines long kneading strokes with shorter, more rhythmic strokes. This type of massage includes five different types of strokes and is great for relaxation. Deep tissue massage focuses on painful problem points on the body and uses slow, firm, and more intense or frictional movements to help relieve pain caused by repetitive tension, postural problems, injuries, and tight or painful muscles. Hot stone massages use hot stones (usually a volcanic rock called basalt that retains heat) that are placed on different parts of the body.

This heat on the muscles of the body has a relaxing and healing effect and increases blood flow to the area. Sports massages manipulate the soft tissues of the body and focus on certain muscle groups that depend on the athlete's sport. It helps prevent and treat injuries, reduce muscle pain, correct muscle imbalances, improve flexibility and improve sports performance. Reflexology is based on the concept of “reflex areas” in the hands and feet, whose energy is believed to be connected to other parts of the body.

Shiatsu massage has a history in traditional Chinese medicine and involves a massage therapist using rhythmic, localized pressure with the fingers, hands, or elbows at certain acupressure points on the body. Thai massage is a more energizing form of massage that incorporates assisted yoga, passive stretching and pressure massage movements. Swedish massage and deep tissue massage are the most common forms of full body massage. The main areas it focuses on are the neck, back, shoulders, legs, feet, arms and hands.

The buttocks, abdomen, and pectoral muscles can also be treated. A clear benefit of a full body massage is deep relaxation and relief from body aches. You can also get a sports massage before an event such as a half marathon so that your body is truly prepared for the activity. If you don't feel comfortable undressing or giving yourself a full body massage, scalp massage or foot massage can be great options for relaxation.

Before booking your next massage session, it's important to first determine the purpose of your massage. Many small therapists know how to take advantage of their body weight and provide a deep tissue massage experience. Prenatal massage training includes instructions on specific modifications that are used to help protect the baby and make the mother more comfortable both during and after the massage. Therefore, we often incorporate techniques from each type of massage to ensure that you receive the best treatment possible.

No matter which type of full-body massage you choose, you'll be one step closer to relaxation! Make sure to research each type of massage before booking your session so that you can choose the best one for your needs.

Meagan Furgerson
Meagan Furgerson

Passionate social media aficionado. Hipster-friendly zombie maven. Friendly music maven. Incurable pop culture fanatic. Professional travel evangelist.