A massage normally involves pressing, kneading, rubbing, or tapping various parts of the body, creating a wonderful sensation and making one feel more relaxed. But did you know that there are many kinds of massage each with its own uniqueness to it?
Let’s explore 9 types of massage people enjoy and we can bet that you have never heard some of them before!
1. Thai Massage
Image from Ancient Thai
Perhaps one of the most popular kind of massage, Thai massage involves all aspects of massage such as pressing, kneading, and even stretching. Some have even compared Thai massage with yoga stretches as the therapist would usually bend, stretch, pull the muscles to relieve stiffness, tension, and soreness.
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2. Ayurveda Massage
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Originating from the incredible India, Ayurveda massage is said to be over 5,000 years old! In Sanskrit, “ayur” means life and “veda” means knowledge, so we can deduce that ayurveda means “the knowledge of life”. Abhyanga is one of the most popular forms of massage in ayurveda, it involves the use of aromatic oils to loosen toxins and relax the nervous system. It’s said that once the oil has penetrated your skin, you’ll immediately feel a sense of relaxation, putting you into deep rest, nourishment, and rejuvenation.
3. Aromatherapy
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Similar to Ayurveda massage, this form of therapy also involves the use of scented oils. The essential oils used during aromatherapy sessions would normally contain plant extracts. The way aromatherapy works is that the fragrances trigger the smell receptors within the nose which then sends messages to the limbic system which is the part of the brain that controls our emotions to make us feel more calm and relaxed.
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Eager to find out for yourself? Book your session at Royal Spa, Footsie, or ALAM BEAUTY & WELLNESS SPA to try out this unique kind of massage!
4. Fire Massage
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Have you ever heard of a fire massage? It originates from China but has then spread to other parts of the world. It typically involves a cloth that is soaked in alcohol and a special liquid which is then placed on the problem area. The cloth is then lit on fire and let burn for up to 1 minute! The heat opens up the skin’s pores and delivers a soothing warmth to the nerves. Among the benefits of this massage is said to be to eliminate wrinkles, relieve joint pain, eases insomnia, and even cures colds.
5. Tui Na
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Also hailing from the Forbidden City, Tui Na is an alternative Chinese treatment but also known as Chinese acupressure massage. The goal is to encourage the movement of energy called “qi” throughout the 14 meridians of the body. This is done by a therapist pressing and stretching different parts of the body to allow “qi” to travel as well as relieve muscle sores and stiffness that one might be experiencing.
Image from REBORN @ Plaza Damas
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6. Knife Massage
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Don’t be alarmed! Although it sounds intimidating, we can guarantee you this popular Taiwanese massage is safe. This form of massage is done by blunt knives and is believed to have physical and emotional benefits. A therapist would repeatedly strike your muscles which is said to draw out negative energy. The thin edge of the knife can also reach parts of the body that a human hand is unable to.
7. Stick Massage
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They might look small but they definitely pack a punch! Arguably one of the most effective massage tools, massage sticks have edges that can reach deeper into muscles while exerting stronger pressure. It’s useful after a hard workout or when you just feel tired. The massage stick helps to roll out tight spots, relieve muscle sores, and promote healthy blood flow throughout the body. One should definitely avoid underestimating the power of the stick!
8. Hammer Massage
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Giving a new meaning to getting hammered in Thailand, this massage is also known as “Tok Sen” and involves the use of a wooden hammer and different sized sticks to be tapped on different parts of the body. The combined pressure from the hammer and stick allows the therapist to dig deeper into muscles to relieve sores and realign the nerves. It might seem a little scary but people claim that this form of massage can be soothing and promotes a wonderful sense of calm.
9. Balinese Massage
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Bali is the place to go for you to wind down, relax, and take your time while you’re there. The same philosophy applies to a Balinese massage whereby instead of a therapist pulling, stretching, pressing your body parts to relieve pain, a Balinese massage is more relaxed and a therapist would take their time to treat you. Balinese massage has a slower rhythm and your therapist would usually adjust the pressure according to your preference. Fun fact, a Balinese massage will always involve the massage of the stomach as it is beneficial for colon health and the reproductive system.
Image from The AsiaSpa
Can’t head over to Bali but want a Balinese massage? Look no further than The AsiaSpa, BaliAyu - Hartamas Shopping Centre, or Mandara Spa - Sheraton Imperial KL where you can find many Balinese massage packages available for you!
Those were some of the wonderful, pleasurable, relaxing forms of massage that people like to enjoy after a long day at work or just to wind down and relax with a self-reward. Check out the best 100 massage and spa offers you can find with us! Remember to claim your GOMASSAGE promo code for an additional 20% off on your total bill to be used on any massage & spa deals!