Massage is manipulation of muscles, connective tissue, ligaments and joints, usually by using hands or elbows of the massage therapist, and sometimes other tools such as massage rollers. It can relieve stress, lower blood pressure, promote healing after injuries, improve immune system, flexibility and blood and lymph circulation.
During a good massage with a trusted therapist, emotional release/catharsis is also common, as the long pent-up feelings hiding in the stiffness of the body are released through laughter or unexpected tears.
Often, massage therapists use special massage oils (not too slick) and include aromatherapy, soothing light and music and other techniques to promote client’s relaxation throughout the session.
Some of the more popular massage techniques are:
| Acupressure and Shiatsu | ||
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A form of Oriental massage. These are similar techniques of finger pressure massage. The objective is to restore and improve the flow of chi (energy) in the body, by applying pressure on the areas of the body corresponding to the acupuncture points. It’s believed that the muscle constrictions and tightness impair the flow of chi, and relaxing of the areas restores the balance. Acupressure is a more generic term, while Shiatsu is a Japanese version of this massage technique. |
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