Relaxing Massage can help you get your mind, body, and soul on the path towards wellness, healing, and relaxation. Here are a few exotic massage therapies that is sure to leave you rejuvenated and in high spirits.
Massage is no longer available only
through luxury spas and upscale health clubs. Today, massage therapy is offered in clinics and hospitals. If you’ve never tried massage before, you are definitely missing out on something. Massage is generally considered part of complementary and alternative medicine. It’s increasingly being offered along with standard treatment for a wide range of medical conditions and situations. There are various Spas and health clubs offering exotic massage therapies which is sure to help you get your mind, body, and soul on the path towards wellness, healing, and relaxation. Massage may range from light stroking to deep pressure techniques. There are many different types of massage; here are a few popular ones.Thai Massage
Thai massages are one of the most relaxing massages available today. They eliminate every last drop of stress in the muscles. As its name implies it is practiced in Thailand. It is believed that the massage originated in India more than 1000 years, and is based on the principles of medicine Ayurveda and was later taken to Thailand for the followers of Buddha.
In the massage the therapist uses the feet and hands to put pressure, and similar movements are used in yoga to stretch the muscles. In the traditional massage oils are not used and the person does not have to remove their clothing. But however today it has been modified and therapists use oil for massaging parts of the body such as shoulders and back. In addition to the benefits of massage, Thai massage normally uses acupressure to mobilize energy.
Try: Royal Thai Massage at Kaya Kalp, ITC Royal Gardenia, www.itcwelcomgroup.in
Swedish Massage
Known as the “classic” massage the world over, this is a basic, light massage that would be ideal for the first-time spa visitor. During Swedish massage, therapists use massage oils to facilitate smooth, gliding strokes called effleurage. Other classic Swedish massage moves include kneading, friction, stretching and (sometimes) tapping.
Swedish massage uses firm but gentle pressure to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension and create other health benefits. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time.
Try: Traditional Swedish Massage at Rejuve Spa, The Lalit Ashok, www.thelalit.com/bangalore
Ayurveda Massage
Ayurvedic massage is a set of massages that originated in ancient India. These massages have a soothing and relaxing effect on your body. An ayurvedic massage aims at improving your blood circulation and builds up your immune system by helping your body to flush out harmful toxins. An ayurvedic massage involves the use of a predefined set of massaging techniques and certain essential oils that are beneficial to the body. Various essential oils namely, ksheerabal tailam, dhanvataram tailam and maha narayan tailam are extensively used in ayurvedic massages.
Through a systematic regime of regular massaging, a person can recover from various physical ailments without having to undergo medication. Body toxins can be flushed out naturally. Certain other oils such as coriander oil are known to cool down the body and provide a soothing feeling.
Try: Swaad, ayurvedic special wellness package (7 days) at Soukya, www.soukya.com; The Lalit Ashok, www.thelalit.com/bangalore
Aromatheraphy Massage
Aromatherapy massage uses essential oils derived from plants to affect your mood and alleviate pain. In aromatherapy massage, essential oils are mixed with a carrier oil like sweet almond, apricot kernel, or grapeseed oil. The massage therapist use up to five oils in a mixture, and chooses the oils based on what you need. A relaxing aromatherapy massage, for instance, might have lavender or bergamot, while a massage for sore muscles might include peppermint and eucalyptus.
Essential oils are a volatile, highly concentrated plant extracts, derived from leaves, bark, roots, seeds resins and flowers. They can also be used in hydrotherapy baths, facials and body treatments. Aromatherapy should not be confused with fragrances or perfume oils. Fragrances are often made from chemicals, and lack the therapuetic properties of essential oils. So just because someone lights a scented candle doesn’t make it aromatherapy!
Try: Aromatherapy Massage at Angsana Oasis Spa & Resort, www.angsana.com
Balinese Massage
Balinese massage uses a combination of gentle stretches, acupressure and aromatherapy oils to stimulate the flow of blood, oxygen and “qi” (energy) around your body, and bring deep relaxation and wellness. An ancient technique, Balinese massage uses a variety of techniques including skin rolling, kneading and stroking, acupressure and reflexology; essential oils will relax and soothe you.
Balinese massage is a rigorous and luxurious spa treatment and a great one to choose if you want to experience a variety of massage techniques, relax and feel spiritually renewed at the same time. Balinese massage is related to the Ayurveda, the Indian holistic medical system. A relaxation massage with attitude, this treatment will boost your circulation and give you a deep tissue and muscular massage as well.
Try: Balinese Massage at Asian Woman Spa, e-asianwoman.com
Lomi Lomi Massage
Lomi Lomi is an ancient form of massage native to the exotic islands of Hawaii. During this massage, warmed Hawaiian oils are applied with long palm strokes. This full body massage incorporates other techniques as well according to your requirement like stretching and rhythmic movement of the limbs. It is aimed at soothing tense muscles and stiff bones to leave you with a complete remedial massage.
Lomi Lomi massage goes as deep as you can tolerate, so it is a very powerful way to release negative energies. Lomi Lomi has several benefits. It soothes aching limbs and increases circulation of blood, ridding the body of toxins. It is very beneficial for a number of conditions like sports injury, work related stress, arthritis, depression and even insomnia. It is a complete therapeutic treatment.