5 Types of Massage for Stress Relief and Relaxation

Massage antistress
Massage is a tried-and-true relaxation method that is proven to contribute to a healthy lifestyle. This tranquil, restful practice has indisputable benefits for both body and mind. Stress is a pervasive societal problem that affects 1 out of 3 people. It generally presents as a rush of adrenaline or tension in the muscles or nervous system. While a moment of stress isn’t generally cause for concern, chronic stress can eventually lead to health problems. In this article, Massage Adagio presents 5 types of massage for stress relief that will reduce your tension and make you feel revitalized.

How to reduce stress through massage

Physically speaking, stress relief massages are a great way to ease muscle tension. They loosen up the body, reduce stiffness and calm agitation. Psychologically speaking, stress relief massages promote a feeling of well-being that can help alleviate stress and anxiety. That’s one of the reasons why a massage makes a great gift idea.

How does a stress relief massage work?

Stress relief massages stimulate the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. The gland secretes endorphins that relieve pain and induce a feeling of euphoria. Oxytocin is also produced, reducing blood pressure and slowing heart rate. Massages for stress relief can have the following effects:
  • Ease stress and anxiety
  • Reduce fatigue, improve sleep and digestion
  • Release muscle tension
  • Improve blood and lymphatic circulation
  • Promote skin elasticity and vitality

Types of massage for stress relief

There are several different types of massage for stress relief. Find out about 5 of them below to help you determine which appeals to you most!

1. Soothe the body with Californian massage

Californian massage is American in origin and involves long, languorous hand movements along the body with the aid of fragrant massage oils. The soothing sensations comfort the person being massaged and encourage them to relax and let go for the duration of the massage. This type of massage is ideal for people who are prone to anxiety, tension and overwork. It provides total physical and psychological relaxation that promotes self-esteem and listening to one’s own body and needs. Californian massage soothes and relaxes while promoting emotional equilibrium, relaxing muscle tension and affecting blood and lymphatic circulation. If you want to reconnect with your body, Californian massage is a great choice.

2. Ease tension with shiatsu massage

Originating from the land of the rising sun, shiatsu is a technique inspired by acupuncture and Chinese massage. Instead of needles, this technique relies on the fingers to work the body’s pressure points, hence the name: “shi” for “finger” and “atsu” for “pressure”. This massage technique stimulates the tsubo that represent the 660 vital points on the body.  Shiatsu uses pressure and stretching to help circulate the person’s vital energy, or qi, in an effort to avoid energy blockages that can result in a variety of ailments. Shiatsu massage is often recommended for people with chronic problems such as sleep disorders, digestive trouble and muscle tension.

3. Eliminate fatigue with Ayruvedic massage

Another ancient Asian technique is Ayurvedic massage, which originated in India. Based on traditional Indian medicine, it affects the 7 chakras with the intention of bringing balance to the body and mind. In addition to balancing the energy in the body, this massage technique can have a particularly positive effect on those with conditions related to stress and chronic pain. This type of stress relief massage can flush out toxins, promote blood and lymphatic circulation, eliminate fatigue, improve sleep and induce deep muscle relaxation.

4. Balance body and mind with Thai massage

If you want to escape the pressures of daily life and recharge your batteries, Thai massage may be just what you’re looking for. Also known as Nuad Boran, Thai massage has such therapeutic effects that it is even recommended in hospital settings. The massage therapist will use their elbows, knees and feet to perform this deep tissue massage that includes stretching, pressure, percussive motions and body movement. Sometimes called passive yoga, Thai massage is performed on the ground, fully clothed. It is thought to prevent stress-related disorders and soothe the body and mind. This massage for stress relief will help you gain flexibility and energy, improve your circulation, relax your muscles and ease joint pain.

5. Reconnect to your energy with reflexology

Reflexology acts on each part of the body, including organs, by stimulating pressure points on the feet. Through foot massage, reflexology treats stress and promotes well-being and letting go. The practice has an incredibly relaxing effect on the nervous system and various parts of the body, including the face, skull, teeth and genitals. By stimulating the reflex areas, the reflexologist provides relaxation and stress relief.

Find relaxation and release with Massage Adagio!

Massage for stress relief can help you relax and reconnect with your body. There are plenty of massage techniques available that have a powerfully calming effect. Even an unusual practice like erotic massage can have a positive impact on many complaints, including stress. If you’re interested in discovering the services we offer, don’t hesitate—book your massage at our Montreal salon today!