Today, every modern person knows that massage is an integral part of medicine. Quite often, the skillful hands of a specialist save a person from all kinds of diseases.
Today there are a large number of different massage techniques, each of them is unique in its own way. They can be used for general maintenance of the body and for medicinal purposes (to treat specific parts).
Any kind of procedures reflexively affects the body systems. Depending on what the massage is for, it can be divided into several types.
Massage: types and techniques
There are four main types of massage:
- sports (training, preparatory, recovery)
- therapeutic (for the prevention or elimination of various diseases)
- hygienic (prophylactic for the body)
- cosmetic (anti-aging, anti-cellulite).
To achieve the best result, massage therapists traditionally use various creams, massage oils, aromatic oils, medicinal ointments, gels. Non-traditional products such as honey, hot chocolate, soap suds are also used.
Of the devices, vacuum cans, stones, bags, special massage devices (masseurs), bamboo sticks are used.
The catalog of massage parlors also highlights male, female and children’s massages. They are designed to address individual health problems.
There are a lot of subspecies of the massage itself, since the first historical mention of massage dates back to the 6th century BC. Each country has its own type and technique of performance, but the end result is the same for all – helping the body.
The most common subspecies are classic back massage, Thai, stone therapy, aromatherapy, shiatsu, massage for pregnant women. Hardware massage is also widespread.
Classic massage.
This species is probably the most common in the world. It is used for various diseases of the back or for prevention. As a rule, such a massage begins from the collar zone and gradually descends below.
The procedure itself includes a number of relaxing techniques that turn into percussion. Depending on the problem and the condition of the patient, the procedure time varies from 30 minutes to one and a half hours. Often, with such a massage, a special cream is used, which enhances the effect.
Thai.
The main principle is to work with energy points, it also includes stretching. A competent master detects points of influence and presses on them, thus massaging.
It is noteworthy that he does these pressures not only with his hands, but also with his knees, elbows, and in some cases with his whole body.
A session of such a massage lasts quite a long time for two and a half hours. During it, the spine is gently pulled out, the joints are worked out.
Stone therapy.
Stone therapy or stone massage is a newfangled subspecies of massage. Its essence lies in the relaxing effect on the muscles and relaxation of the body with the help of hot and cold stones.
Stones are arranged according to energy points to achieve a result. Sometimes stones are massaged with points to enhance the effect. For such a procedure, special minerals are used that conduct heat and cold well, as a rule, these are marble or basalt rocks. The duration of the session is 45-90 minutes.
Aromatherapy.
This massage therapy aims to relax, relieve stress, normalize blood circulation and much more, using a variety of aromatic essential oils. The main oil is lavender.
Depending on the problem, the masseur selects the necessary components. Essential oils include protective mechanisms in tissue cells, which contributes to the natural improvement of the patient’s condition. The duration of the procedure is 10-30 minutes.
Shiatsu.
Shiatsu is a Japanese acupressure. Unlike other types of such massage, it uses the study of the whole body with the help of pressure. Pressing is done without massaging movements. One and the same point is pressed several times, thanks to this, shiatsu is called acupressure.
It contributes to the treatment and prevention of many diseases. During the sessions, the body receives a good warm-up, which can be compared with physical activity. The time of impact on the point is 5-7 seconds. On average, the procedure takes 30-40 minutes.
Massage for pregnant women.
This type of massage is very popular among pregnant women, as it reduces swelling, fatigue, relieves pain and anxiety. But such a procedure during pregnancy should be taken very seriously.
Massage should be done only by a knowledgeable specialist. It is better to consult and find out what kind of massage will be beneficial. This procedure should not cause pain or discomfort to the mother. Time should not exceed 40-45 minutes.
Therapeutic massage
It is shown primarily to healthy people for the prevention of various diseases and maintaining vitality.
This type of massage improves metabolism, enhances the enrichment of the body with oxygen and nutrients, normalizes the activity of all systems and organs, produces a relaxing effect, and is also used to strengthen the body and quickly heal injuries.
Therapeutic massage is the most effective and pleasant technique. A professionally performed massage gives the result – relaxation of the body and peace of mind.