People usually think of massage as a luxury, but the truth is that it is used to treat many illnesses and has a wide range of benefits. Massage therapy is known to be very good for mental health. It not only boosts the mind but treats depression as well. With the tough work routines, almost everyone needs a little break these days to give some peace to their minds. In such cases, a massage is the best solution to nurture one’s mental peace and make it better. While there are many different massage therapies being practiced worldwide, there are some that are known to have excellent benefits for a person’s mental health. Here are some of these massage therapies discussed in detail below.
1- Swedish massage
A Swedish Massage is generally a gentle full body massage therapy that is considered ideal for people who:
- Have been taking medicine to relieve stress
- Are suffering from stress and depression
- Are very sensitive to touch
This massage helps to release the tight muscles of the body and is a perfect option when you want to relax during your massage completely. During a Swedish massage, therapists use a combination of:
- Long, smooth strokes towards the heart are also ideal for people with chronic pain.
- A deep circular motion that acts directly on the stiffened muscles of the body
- Tapping on the body and vibration
- Passive movement for the joints
Swedish Massage is said to be calm and refreshing for people, and it is best for your mental well-being. If you’ve never had a massage before, it’s worth trying. A typical Swedish Massage lasts 60-90 minutes and gives you enough time to relax your mind and body.
2- Hot Stone Massage
This massage is effective for those people who have muscle soreness, tension, or seek comfort and want to relax. It is somewhat similar to the Swedish massage in terms of effects. However, the masseuse uses stones heated to a certain temperature instead of or in addition to the hands. The use of heated stones:
- Relives muscle tension in different parts of the body
- Improves blood circulation inside the body and relieves pain.
- Promotes relaxation and reduces stress
In a Hot Stone Massage, different-sized stones are heated and then placed on various body parts. The therapist may use Swedish massage techniques and gentle pressure to hold the stone while massaging. Cold stone is also sometimes used to break the tension among the muscles.
3- Thai Massage
A Thai Massage is a therapy that is ideal for those sportsmen and athletes who want to reduce pain and stress. It also helps improve:
- Flexibility among the muscles
- Circulation of blood
- Energy levels among the body
Thai Massage moves the whole body with a series of movements similar to yoga stretching. The therapist uses the palm and fingers to apply firm pressure on the body. The body is also stretched and twisted in various positions.
4- Aromatherapy Massage
An Aromatherapy Massage is best for those who want to include an emotional healing element in their therapy session. This type of massage helps in:
- Reducing anxiety and stress
- Relieving pain in various parts of the body
- Minimizing the symptoms of depression
- Relieving the knots in muscles
An Aromatherapy Massage uses essential oils to apply soft and gentle pressure on various body points. The massage therapist usually decides which essential oil to use but sometimes also asks the client if they have any preference. The masseuse dilutes the essential oils before applying them to the skin. During your massage, you will receive a full body massage in which the essential oil is inhaled through a diffuser and absorbed through the skin. Sometimes Aromatherapy Massages focus only on the back, shoulders, and head. This therapy takes an hour to complete, and a person gets mental relaxation and satisfaction.
5- Shiatsu Massage
A Shiatsu Massage, also known as acupressure massage, is best for those who want to unwind and relieve stress, pain, and tension. It is a Japanese massage that is widely practiced worldwide because it enhances both physical and emotional stability and relaxation. It helps a lot in relieving stress, anxiety, and depression. It also plays a good role in reducing headaches and muscle pain. Although Acupressure Massage works for the entire body, the therapist can focus on the areas of the body that need special attention. During the massage, the therapist uses hands, palms, and thumbs to massage specific points on the body. Pulsating or Rhythmic pressure is used to provide relaxation.
According to elegance massage if you are looking for a massage to improve your mental health, choose any one of the massages shared above. Book an appointment with a top massage center in your area and enjoy the excellent mental health benefits of a massage.
