Have you ever thought about booking a massage, and looking at all of the massage styles that are available to you has left you somewhat confused?
We’ve all been there.
Unless you’re a regular when it comes to massages, it can be hard to know which one to choose.
Massage Styles Explained
The art of massage is the practice of rubbing and kneading the body using the hands.
There are many varieties of massage that focus on different parts of the body. So during a massage you can expect to experience a massage therapist applying gentle or strong pressure.
This pressure to your muscles or joints helps to ease pain and tension.
Swedish Massage
One of the most common massage styles; a Swedish massage is typically the type of massage that comes to mind when we think of a massage.
It’s a great beginners massage.
A Swedish massage is also ideal for people who experience a lot of tension, or who are sensitive to touch.
Perfect for releasing muscle knots and full relaxation.
What can you expect during a Swedish massage?
They last 30 or 60 minutes here at Worthingtons.
Your massage therapist will use long sweeping motions usually at the beginning and end of the massage.
They’ll also use a combination of muscle kneading and rolling to work on those knots.
Also be prepared to experience friction, where deep pressure is applied with fingertips and knuckles in a particular spot.
Not forgetting the stereotypical movements of a Swedish massage, rhythmic tapping.
Rhythmic tapping involves fast movements, the typical chopping motion we associate with massages.
If you find any of those movements or pressure uncomfortable or not relaxing just let your therapist know so they can tailor your massage to you.
Hot Stones Massage Styles
Best for those with muscle pain, especially if it’s intense and a Swedish massage isn’t enough for relief.
It’s also a great massage for relaxation.
Think of a hot stones massage as a slightly more intense Swedish massage with the addition of hot stones.
Did you know that it can also improve blood flow?
Again, here at Worthingtons you can choose between a 30 minute or 60 minute session.
But what do you experience during a hot stones massage?
Heated stones are placed on different areas of your body. Your therapist will then use a hot stone to continue to massage your body using techniques similar to a Swedish massage.
Aromatherapy Massage
Like every massage, you will experience relief from muscle pain and tension.
Aromatherapy is perfect for those who want a more emotionally healing component to their massage.
This is great for boosting your mood and reducing stress and anxiety.
Expect a 30 or 60 minute full body massage session for ultimate relaxation.
Your therapist will use a combination of gentle pressure with essential oils.
If you have a preference for an essential oil just let your therapist know. Otherwise they’ll pick the oil they think will be best for you.
Indian Head Massage
A massage that aims to rebalance the body’s energies.
It’s an ancient therapeutic treatment that uses accupressure massage techniques on the head, face, neck and shoulders.
What benefits can you expect from an indian head massage?
It can make you feel serene while improving blood flow in your upper body.
Aches and pains in your neck, shoulders and back will be relieved.
It’s also great for improving your hair texture and encouraging your hair to grow.
Holistic Massage
Holistic massage focusses not only on your body but your mind aswell.
Therapeutic touch is used to relieve your entire physical body of stress and tension as well as aiding lymphatic drainage.
Through this release of physical stress you will experience full relaxation helping you to clear your mind.
What are the benefits of an Holistic massage?
Improving blood flow and quality of sleep are the main benefits of an holistic massage.
Book now…
So, there you have it, our massage styles explained to help you discover the technique that’s best for you. If you need any further guidance on making a decision, we’d love to chat to you. Just call us on
0118 983 2964 or
book online.