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Different types of massage focus on specific regions of the body, with different healing approaches.

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Massage is the practice of rubbing and kneading the body using the hands, applying local pressure gently or strongly, to relieve pain and tension in the muscles and joints of the body. A massage therapist is a person trained to do massage.

There are several types of massage that focus on different parts of the body, with different healing approaches. Check out:

1. Swedish massage

Swedish massage is a type of full-body massage that is ideal for people who are beginners, have a lot of tension and are sensitive to touch. It helps to undo muscle knots and is a good choice to completely relax.

For this type of massage, it is necessary to remove the clothes, with the exception of underwear. The person to be massaged is covered by a sheet that will be removed by the masseuse only from the massaged parts.

The massage therapist will use a combination of:

• Kneading;
• Long, fluid movements towards the heart;
• Deep circular movements;
• Vibration and beats;
• Passive joint movement techniques.

Typically, a Swedish massage lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.

2. Hot Stone Massage

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Hot stone massage is indicated for people who have muscle pain and tension, or who simply want to relax. This type of therapeutic massage is similar to Swedish massage, the only difference being that stones are used instead of hands. It serves to relieve muscle tension, relax, improve blood flow and pain.

The masseuse places heated stones in different areas of the body, making movements similar to Swedish massage, with gentle pressure.

The person to be massaged does not wear clothes unless they feel more comfortable. This type of massage usually lasts 90 minutes.

3. Aromatherapy massage

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Aromatherapy massage is a type of massage suitable for people seeking to heal emotionally. This type of massage improves the mood; reduces stress and anxiety; relieves muscle tension and pain; and reduces symptoms of depression.

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The massage therapist combines gentle pressure and the use of essential oils on the skin and in a diffuser.

Sometimes, aromatherapy massage focuses only on the back, shoulders and head and lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.

4. Deep massage

During deep tissue massage, more pressure is used than in Swedish massage. It is a good option for those who have chronic muscle problems, such as pain or injury. It can help relieve tight muscles, chronic muscle pain and anxiety.

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During deep tissue massage, the masseuse uses slow movements and deep finger pressure to relieve tension in the deeper layers of muscles and connective tissues. The person to be massaged can be naked or just wear their underwear. This type of massage lasts around 60 to 90 minutes.

5. Sports Massage

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Sports massage is a good option for those who have an injury caused by repetitive motion, as can happen when practicing a sport. It is also important to prevent sports injuries, increase flexibility and physical performance. In addition, sports massage can be used to relieve pain, anxiety, and muscle tension. It can be done in the body to focus on the parts of the body that need the most attention. Deep pressure can be alternated with gentle movements depending on needs.

This type of massage can be done wearing thin clothes or with a naked body and lasts between 60 and 90 minutes

6. Trigger point massage

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Trigger point massage is best suited for people who have injuries, chronic pain, or specific conditions. Sometimes areas of tension in muscle tissue, known as trigger points, can cause pain in other parts of the body. Focusing massage on trigger points helps reduce pain elsewhere in the body.

Trigger point massage uses broad, fluid strokes that are gentle and relaxing combined with stronger, deeper pressure. Massage will include work on the whole body, although the therapist will focus on specific areas of the body that need to be released. You can wear light clothing for the massage or be fully or partially undressed. This type of massage usually lasts between 60 to 90 minutes.

7. Reflexology

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Reflexology is for anyone looking to relax or restore their natural energy levels. It is also a good option for those who do not feel comfortable with being touched over the entire body, as this technique uses pressure (from gentle to firm) only on points of the feet, hands and ears. A reflexology massage lasts around 30 to 60 minutes.

8. Shiatsu massage

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the massage shiatsu is a type of Japanese massage indicated for people who want to feel relaxed and relieve stress, pain and tension. It promotes physical and emotional relaxation; relieves stress, anxiety and depression; can relieve headache and reduce muscle tension.

It can be done all over the body in specific regions that need extra attention. During massage, the therapist uses the hands, palms and thumbs to massage certain points on the body. Rhythmic pulse or pressure techniques are used and the person does not need to undress if desired. This type of massage lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.

9. Thai Massage

Thai massage increases flexibility, circulation and energy levels. This massage is done on the entire body using a sequence of movements that are similar to stretching done in yoga.

The massage therapist uses the palms and fingers to apply firm pressure; and stretches and twists the body into various positions. You can wear loose, comfortable clothing during this type of massage. It lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.

10. Prenatal Massage

Prenatal massage can be a safe way for pregnant women to reduce pain, stress and muscle tension during pregnancy. It can be applied at any time during pregnancy. However, many facilities do not offer the ideal conditions for providing massage to pregnant women in the first trimester of pregnancy, due to the risk of miscarriage during this period.

Prenatal massage uses light pressure similar to Swedish massage. In this type of massage, the masseuse focuses on areas such as the lower back, hips and legs. The person can be fully or partially undressed, depending on the comfort level. During the massage, the pregnant woman is lying on her side or on a specially designed table with a cutout for her belly. But beware: if you are pregnant and have pain in your calves or other parts of your leg, seek medical help before having a massage. The duration is between 45 and 60 minutes.

11. Couples massage

A couples massage provides all the benefits of a regular massage and sometimes provides access to hot tubs, saunas and other spa facilities. Other treatments such as pedicures, facials and body scrubs are sometimes offered as part of a package.

Usually, you can choose the type of massage you would like to receive with your partner. But you can also choose to receive a different type of massage from your partner. The couple sit at tables side by side, and each has their own massage therapist, and it is possible to talk during the massage, if desired.

12. Chair massage

The massage performed on a chair is indicated for those who want a quick massage focused on the neck, shoulders and back. This technique can also be a way to have the first contact with this universe of massage. It helps relieve stress and anxiety using medium pressure. The person being massaged remains fully clothed and sits on a chair specially designed for the masseuse to do his job. This type of massage lasts between ten and 30 minutes.