Types of upper body massages

Massage therapy is becoming very popular in today’s world, as it helps to treat various ailments and afflictions in people of all ages. This is because one of the biggest causes of most health problems in today’s world, is stress, which can be alleviated to a great extent, with the help of effective body massaging techniques. In fact massage therapy can cause the muscles in different parts of the body to relax.

Therefore, the muscles get rid of the stress in the body, which leads to relaxation for a longer period of time. Hence, massages have become popular with people of all ages, not only because they enjoy it, but also because of the several health benefits that have been associated with it. Some of the other common health benefits of the various body massaging techniques include:

Boosting the immunity, which reduces the risks of various ailments and diseases
Controlling blood pressure
Enhancing the functioning of different organs in the body
Getting rid of stiffness and pain from the joints
Improving the circulation of blood as well as oxygen, to the different parts of the body
Preventing hair loss by strengthening the roots and improving the texture of the hair (in case of head massages)
Promoting better sleep
Reducing aches and pains in most parts of the body, which is why massages are excellent for upper back pain relief
Refreshing and rejuvenating the tissues and cells of the body
Hence, in order to enjoy these benefits of massage therapy, it is common for people to visit massage parlors, health spas or fitness centers on a regular basis.
Fortunately, there are several different types of body massages, each of which adopt different massage techniques. People should make themselves aware of what the different massage techniques are, before deciding which one would suit them the best.

Types of Body Massages

There are numerous types of body massages, which may vary in popularity from one region to the other. However, given below are some of the most common types of body massages used by people all over the world:

Thai massage: The energies of the body are aligned with the help of gentle pressure, applied on to specific points, through this technique, which also includes stretches and compressions. It is very energizing as the person taking the massage will need to move into different postures.

Deep tissue massage: The deeper layers of connective tissues and muscles are targeted with the deep tissue massage. Slow strokes are friction techniques are an important part of this massage therapy.

Swedish massage: This massage technique is probably the most commonly used one in the United States. In this technique, the massage therapist uses strokes that are long and smooth, with circular and kneading motions on the superficial layer of muscle, using a good massage oil or lotion. Since this technique is quite gentle, people are advised to opt for it, in case they are taking a full upper body massage for the first time.

Aromatherapy massage: People going through aromatherapy massage enjoy the benefit of one or more aromatic plant oils, known as essential oils, which address specific needs of the body. Lavender essential oil is probably used most often by people going through aromatherapy massage.

Shiatsu massage: Localized pressure applied in a rhythmic sequence, on to specific acupuncture meridians forms the basis of this Japanese bodywork. In order to improve the flow of energy and allow the body to regain balance, each point is held for around two to eight seconds. This form of massage therapy is quite relaxing and though firm pressure is applied, there is no soreness experienced afterwards, if the correct techniques are used.

The types of massages that people may choose to go on for could vary, based on the part of the body that is being massaged. Most masseuses specialize in head, shoulder, foot, back and neck massage techniques, as these are the body parts that people get massaged more regularly than the others.

Backaches are very common in people all over, because of incorrect posture or other similar problems. Since most people are advised to take regular back massages, to expedite the treatment of back pain, there are many people who go in for professional massages regularly. However, due to time and financial constraints, not everyone can get professional massages regularly. Hence, many people look for information on back massaging tips that can be used at home. There is a lot of information on how to give a back massage, easily available through various online resources or books. However, before using any of the massaging tips recommended by such resources, it is important to consult a doctor, as there are certain side effects that are also associated with massages, some of which include nerve damage, allergic reactions (especially to oil or lotion), temporary paralysis and internal bleeding too. Therefore, people who are suffering from any injury or a preexisting medical condition should consult a doctor before going in for a massage of any kind.

Stress related areas in the upper body are shoulder and neck area. Do not massage the front of the neck area around the throat as it is the most delicate of all.

When the person is lying down, massaging the upper body is easier. If someone has headaches, neck or shoulder pains, start by massaging the upper torso. Rub your fingers in circular motion over the temples, cheek bones and forehead lightly. The massage receiver feels relaxed.

Continue the massage along the cheek bone and jaw line, rubbing softly but firmly. Use gentle pressure around the eye socket area with finger tips. Massage the scalp areas, especially along the base of the head and temple using your finger tips for great effects.

To massage the shoulder and chest muscles, stand in front of the massager receivers’ head with your fingertips facing their toes. Rub the chest with your hands in flat position, moving your palms up and down and side ways leading to the shoulders.

Cup your hands underneath the shoulders. Use your fingertips to relax the muscles of the arms. This alleviates socket pain and helps to relax more. Move your hands up and down the arms; continue massaging the muscles so that your arms will relax further. Repeat the same with the other arm.

Rub the back in the same manner that you massaged the chest. Standing at the head of massage receiver, press your palms into the back muscles, rubbing it in a circular motion with your finger tips. It will relax the muscles and provide relief from stress and pain.