What are the Types of Massage and Their Benefits?

Trying to decide what type of massage you should get? There are so many different types of massage available and it can be hard to choose! Studies show there are plenty of benefits to massage therapy for a wide range of concerns. At Asheville Wellness Tours, we offer mobile massage so you can choose your style in the comfort of your own home or vacation rental. No need to worry about getting out of the house on time or finding parking before your appointment. Just relax and let the many benefits of massage come to you!

Of course, there are lots of massage styles to actually choose from, so let’s dive into the most popular and how each could benefit you. You can also read about the general benefits of massage from one of our massage therapists.

1. Swedish Massage

This might be the most common type of massage and carries the connotation of relaxation that many folks associate with massages. During a Swedish massage, your massage therapist uses long, gentle motions and some light tapping to help stimulate blood flow. The primary goal of a Swedish massage is relaxation and the lowering of stress levels. 

This style of massage is best for those looking to completely unwind and feel pampered!

2. Aromatherapy Massage

An aromatherapy massage is just like a Swedish massage, with the addition of essential oils. These are natural oils extracted from various plants that offer additional benefits during your massage. These essential oils can help soothe and relax, and some are used for helping with specific ailments.

The benefits of an aromatherapy massage are similar to those of a Swedish massage, with the added benefits of scent.

3. Prenatal Massage

Sometimes called a pregnancy massage, this style is designed to alleviate stress and relieve pregnancy-related pains for an expectant mother. From lower backaches to swollen ankles, a prenatal massage can offer sweet relief and makes for a wonderful gift.

Massage therapists receive specialized training to become certified in prenatal massage, for the safety and efficacy of this type of massage. The benefits are, of course, the relief of pregnancy-related aches and stress. Studies show that prenatal massage can also reduce anxiety and improve sleep.

4. Couple’s Massage

A couple’s massage doesn’t necessarily have to be a romantic couple! In fact, this is such a lovely experience to share with your sister, mom, daughter, or friends. A couples massage is simply two massage beds in the same room with two massage therapists. You can choose the type of massage based on your own needs, though Swedish is the most common for a relaxing shared experience.

The benefits of a couple’s massage are the same physical benefits of the type of massage you choose. But sharing this experience with someone you’re close to can offer your relationship a moment of calm and serenity. Perfect for a couple, but also for your bestie!

5. Mobile Massage

A mobile massage is a massage that comes to you. Instead of driving to a spa or parlor for a massage, the massage therapist comes to you in your home, office, or other location. Conferences often offer chair massages, while getting a mobile massage while you’re on vacation can be the utmost in relaxation!

The benefits of a mobile massage are that you don’t have to worry about getting to an appointment and you can truly stay relaxed and comfortable after your massage is over. There’s no need to hop back into the car and drive home right away. Instead, stay at home and bask in that post-massage glow.

Interested in booking some self-care? Check availability for a mobile massage in Asheville, or feel free to call us if it’s last-minute!

6. Hot Stone Massage

A hot stone massage involves the careful placement of basalt stones, which are volcanic rock and can be heated to around 145* Fahrenheit. The massage therapist places these hot stones along various parts of your body, typically the spine, feet, hands, chest, and face. The hot stones are placed and the massage therapist also kneads and taps your body, similar to a Swedish massage.

The benefits of a hot stone massage are to provide muscle relaxation and to improve circulation, which can all help with pain relief.

7. Reflexology

Reflexology is based on specific points on your face, ears, hands, and feet that all correspond to various areas of your body. The therapist applies pressure to these specific points to try to alleviate any concerns within those connected areas.

The benefits of reflexology are potential pain relief, the alleviation of muscle tension, and even the release of hormones.

8. Acupressure

You’ve probably heard of acupuncture; acupressure is the same principle, just without the needles. With acupressure, the massage therapist will apply pressure to specific points along your body’s meridians. By applying pressure directly along these lines, blood circulation increases to try to stimulate your body’s own self-healing capacity.

The benefits of acupressure are pain relief and muscle relaxation…plus you don’t need to worry about the needles if you’re squeamish!

9. Sports Massage

A sports massage specifically helps those who exercise regularly. These massages are almost preventative in nature, aiming to increase flexibility and enhance muscle performance, all in an effort to prevent sports-related injuries.

The benefits of a sports massage are muscle pain relief and increased mobility and flexibility. These are advised on a regular basis if you’re very active.

10. Deep-Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage differs from a sports massage in that it targets muscle knots, rather than stretching and increasing mobility. During a deep tissue massage, the massage therapist applies pressure through kneading specific muscles that ache or specific areas of pain or strain.

The benefits of a deep tissue massage are best felt for specific pain relief. While other massages may relax the body overall and relieve general muscle tension, a deep tissue massage is ideal if you have a specific area of your body that is causing you problems.

11. Trigger Point Massage

A trigger point massage is similar to a deep tissue massage in that it is best for specific areas of the body that are causing you pain or discomfort. Trigger points are specific spots that can be pinpointed for potential relief. This type of massage is not for relaxing…it can sometimes be very painful during the session in an effort to relieve the longer-term pain.

A trigger point massage best benefits those with long-term pain from sciatica, injuries, or joint pains. Those suffering from headaches or migraines sometimes benefit from trigger point massages, too.

So those are 11 types of massages and their benefits. Did you learn something new? We’re always happy to help you decide the best wellness option for you. Feel free to reach out anytime and we hope to see you here in Asheville for a mobile massage soon!