Massage Therapy: So Many Types---So Many Benefits

Massage therapy is one of the oldest healing arts and is found in most cultures around the world. There are so many different kinds of massage, that I will only describe some of those that are well known and widely done in the US.

• Accupressure: uses the fingers to press on key points on the skin. When pressed, these points release muscular tension and promote blood circulation and the qi (life force energy) to assist healing. Accupressure helps to relieve headaches, sinus problems, neck, back and muscular aches, eyestrain, menstual pain, constipation and indigestion. When you have a headache and hold your head or temples, that is instinctive accupressure
• Deep Tissue Massage: affects the sublayer of musculature and fascia. I've personally had this kind of massage and found that I was temporarily sore, but that the muscle pain disappeared quickly. According to my masseuse this is very nornal. Deep tissue massage helps with chronic muscular pain and injury rehabilitation and reduces arthritis pain.
• Reflexology: In this form of massage, specific reflex areas of the feet, hands and ears (that happen to correspond to other parts of the body) are manipulated.  Pressure is applied to these reflex areas to stimulate the organs and to help the body to maintain it's natural balance.  Reflexology is often used to reduce pain, stimulate the circulation of blood and lymphatic fluid, and promote relaxation. 
• Swedish Massage: perhaps the best known and most widely used in the US, the Swedish massage is designed to energize the body by increasing circulation. The massage therapist uses oil to reduce friction on the skin and applies tapping, percussive, kneading, rolling and vibrational movements. Some benefits of Swedish massage are relaxation, improved circulation and the lessening of scar tissue. 

South Florida has many terrific spas, healing centers and independent therapists. To find a therapist in your area check the Seniority Matters directory, ask your friends for a recommendation, or go to www.massagetherapy.com. 

Which type of Massage therapy do you think is best for you?