So for your good friend gets you a gift certificate to a nearby spa. You call up to make an appointment for a relaxing massage, and the representative asks what type you would like to get. You ask what they have available and they start spouting off a list of services that range in pricing and style. Oftentimes major chain spas offer mixed types, Swedish with stone, thai mixed with aromatherapy, etc. So what do you choose? Here we will talk about the most popular types, so you can make your reservation in confidence and spend your money wisely!
Swedish: This type of massage tends to be the most popular among the chain spas. Oftentimes, spas will have it listed as their 'classic' massage or their 'relaxation massage'.Reiki ontspanningsmassage Most anytime a general name is listed as a type, it is referring to a traditional Swedish, the most popular in the United States. Lotion or oil is used and it's essentially a 'starter' massage. Various types of pressure is used, depending on the strength of the therapist and the preference of the person getting the treatment. If you have sensitive skin, or a low tolerance for pain, it is recommended to get this type of service. It is also important to ask the therapist what type of lotion or oil is used. If you have sensitive skin, don't be afraid to bring your own product and ask the technician to use that instead of their lotion or oil. I recommend a water-soluble, paraben-free product with shea butter. This will be the best for people with sensitive skin.
Aromatherapy: This massage consists of a variety of pressure. It basically refers to the essential oil used in the product used. Scents can have an invigorating affect on the skin and during an aromatherapy massage, the therapist will ask you what you are looking for. They may ask if you want lavender or peppermint, oils great for stress reduction. If you get convinced to get an aromatherapy massage, just be sure the technician offers you choices. Many people will make the mistake of getting an aromatherapy message because the front desk will up-sell them. They end up paying extra for a package that doesn't really offer anything different than the traditional or Swedish massage.
Hot Stone: This treatment can be added to another type of massage or be offered on its own. Hot stones are used on various pressure points, lightly sitting on the body. While this treatment can be wonderful, if you are unsure if it is for you, ask your spa if they can upgrade your traditional/Swedish massage with a hot stone treatment. This will save you money and also allow you to try it out before getting a full hot stone session. Spa chains like Burke Williams offer the hot stone as an 'enhancement'. Just ask the front desk or reservation representative if they have any enhancements available. Sometimes as little as $5 will allow you to try the hot stone toward the end of your session.
Deep Tissue: This treatment will focus on deeper muscle tissue. Oftentimes their are separate therapists that perform this type. You want to make sure they have strong hands and I recommend going online before your treatment and 'Yelping' or searching for a spa that is known for deep tissue. There is nothing worse than paying more money for deep tissue and having a weak therapist who is basically doing a traditional/Swedish massage.
Shiatsu: The easiest way to understand this method is to think of acupuncture. Shiatsu is a Japanese process that involves finger pressure on specific points of the body. Each point is pushed for 8 seconds and designed to revitalize and re-energize the body. The cynic in all of us says that this is a more modern/flimsy method of massage, but if you find the right spa/therapist, it can be more revitalizing than any other form.
Thai: Much more rigorous, this involves stretching and compressions. A good Thai massage will leave your body exhausted and feeling different than you've ever felt before. I recommend this for athletes and people who can withstand a little extra pain.
Reflexology: Specifically designed for people who are on their feet all day. Sometimes it is just referred to as a foot massage. Just be prepared to only work the lower half of the body as you won't have any pressure on the shoulders or upper half.
The best thing you can do is research where you are going. Read reviews on-line and see what names are thrown around. Usually reviewers will specifically mention the therapists name that is good or bad. Feel free to call the spa and ask if a specific masseur is available. That way, you can be happy with your purchase and get your moneys worth.