​MASSAGE CULTURE

Reflexology:
Reflexology is an ancient Chinese healing art that uses pressure-point stimulation to achieve therapeutic effect throughout the body.It is based on the theory that each part of the body is interconnected through the nervous system to the hands, feet, and ears where there are reflexes that correspond to specific organs/ systems of the body.Therapeutic effect is achieved by stimulating these reflexes with applied pressures.

Swedish Massage Therapy:
This is the most common type of massage therapy in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy.Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil.
Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing.If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.

Hot Stone Massage:
Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body.
The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.

 

Deep Tissue Massage:
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue.
The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.
Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

 

Shiatsu:
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians.
Each point is held for two to eight seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.
People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.

 

Sports Massage:
Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one-it's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus isn't on relaxation but on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance.
A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

 

Back Massage:
Some massage clinics and spas offer 30-minute back massages. If a back massage is not expressly advertised, you can also book a 30- or 40-minute massage and ask that the massage therapist to focus on your back.

Tuina:
Tuina(also known as "tui na") is a type of alternative therapy long used in traditional Chinese medicine, a form of alternative medicine that originated in China. Tuina involves the use of several types of bodywork, including massage and acupressure.
Tuina is thought to help stimulate the flow of vital energy (called "chi") throughout your body. According to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, health problems occur when the flow of chi is blocked at any point along a meridian (an invisible line that connects your organs with other parts of your body).

By removing these blockages, tuina is said to restore your body's balance of chi and, in turn, improve your health.

Uses for Tuina:

In alternative medicine, tuina is said to aid in the treatment of the following conditions:

• arthritis

• back pain

• carpal tunnel syndrome

• chronic fatigue syndrome

• constipation

• fatigue

• fibromyalgia

• headache

• insomnia

• menstrual cramps

• migraine

• muscle spasms

• musculoskeletal problems

• sciatica

 

In addition, tuina is said to alleviate pain, enhance energy, and reduce stress.

Although research on the health effects of undergoing tuina is fairly limited, there's some evidence that tuina may help treat certain health problems.

 

Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstances or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.