The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage helps to relax the entire body while increasing blood oxygen levels and improving circulation.
This technique is ideal if you have never had a massage before, as it can be done gently. During a hot stone massage, the techniques of a regular massage are applied.
However, the therapist also works with hot stones that are placed on specific parts of the body. One of the benefits of cold stone massage is that it can provide a deep state of relaxation, a release of tension, as well as, a reduction of swelling and inflammation due to scar tissue, trauma or injuries to muscles.
Cold stones are excellent because they promote circulation and act as a powerful decongestant for the body. By promoting circulation, a cold stone treatment can ease inflamed tissues, decrease muscle spasms, and can reduce swelling or fluid build-up for example, as manifested in dark circles under the eyes. The use of hot stones allows a therapist to give a deep, penetrating massage without putting excessive stress on his or her own body.
Deep Tissue Massage. This type of massage requires the therapist to apply a considerable amount of pressure which in some cases can cause some discomfort to the client. However, the therapist will always work with in the comfort zone of the client. Deep tissue massage can be of specific help to: Athletes and sports enthusiasts, people with chronic joint or muscle injuries, people that perform repetitive tasks that cause stress or strain on their muscles or people who suffer with stress.
