The 4 Different Types of Full Body Massage and The Benefits of Each
What is a full body massage?
When looking to enter a deep state of relaxation, full body massage is popular as it works on every major part of the body such as the neck, back, shoulders, arms, hands, and legs. You don’t need to have an injured body part to feel the intense benefits of a full body massage. Approximately 70% of American adults use massage therapy for the positive effect it has on their mind and spirit.
It’s easy to become overwhelmed with options when visiting your full body massage therapist. Therefore, we have unpacked the most popular full body massage treatments to help you discover which one works best for you and your individual requirements.
1. Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage techniques involve effleurage, petrissage, trigger point, friction, and vibration to get deep into your soft muscle tissue. A course of deep tissue massage therapy is a great way to treat and prevent strains and injuries. Working deep into your muscle tissue gets blood flowing and your circulation working at its best. Increasing blood flow and lowering your blood pressure will reduce your stress levels and release any tension held in the body. Deep tissue techniques will need adequate pressure to get deep into your muscles, this should not cause you a lot of pain or discomfort.
2. Swedish Massage
Swedish is known to be a gentle type of massage with a focus on relaxation. It’s also referred to as a ‘classic massage’ and is a great treatment for full body massage beginners. Swedish massage techniques such as petrissage and tapotement have just enough pressure to reduce tension and improve your circulation. This can also elongate muscles, increase joint flexibility, and decrease swelling. Even with all its health benefits, Swedish massage is more of a luxury than a fix for injury. The increase in serotonin and endorphins from the Swedish massage will have you feeling pampered, positive, and uplifted.
3. Hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage involves placing either hot or cold stones on the body to increase blood flow to an area. Increasing blood flow provides muscles with increased oxygen and nutrients. Oxygen and nutrients are vital for healing muscle tears and repairing any kind of muscular damage. Hot and cold therapy is great for physical pain and mental stress reduction as the change in temperature encourages people to focus on the present moment. Focusing on the present moment in time and ignoring racing thoughts is one of the best ways to decrease stress and tension.
4. Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) massage techniques involve using circular, pumping, scooping and rotary techniques to keep fluid moving in the body and drain away any swelling. MLD massage is great for protecting against bacteria and virus, reducing cellulite, and treating acne. Feeling detoxicated will boost your confidence and keep you feeling in great shape. The techniques used are soothing, relaxing, and great for keeping lymph fluid from building up and causing pain and discomfort.
We hope this article has enabled you to discover the perfect full body massage treatment for you. Let us know which full body massage treatment you prefer in the comments and don’t forget to share this blog if you enjoyed it.
