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Types of Massage

There are more than 200 forms of massage. Here are some of the more common forms practiced in the United States.

Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy – The therapist is barefoot and uses wooden bars overhead for balance and control in applying his or her body weight on the client’s back.

Chair Massage – The client is typically fully clothed and sits in a chair; the massage focuses on the back, shoulders and neck.

Craniosacral Therapy – This is a gentle massage done to rectify problems in the area surrounding the spinal cord and brain.

Deep Tissue Massage – In this, one of the most commonly practiced forms, the therapist move deeper into muscles. Typically used to treat pain or for rehabilitation purposes.

Prenatal Massage – Specialized for pregnant women, often done on a table created for growing tummies.

Reflexology – Uses pressure points in the feet, hands and ears to reach corresponding points throughout the body. Can be used to relax or help the body’s flow of energy.

Reiki – A form of body work in which the practitioner lays hands on or over seven main energy centers – chakras – to help the body heal itself and align its energy.

Swedish Massage – The most commonly taught form of massage, using a combination of strokes to promote relaxation and circulation.