By Claire Perry
Want to relax your mind and have the week’s tension kneaded out of your back in under an hour? A reputable masseuse can help you. The benefits of massage extend far beyond relaxation and have been scientifically proven to alleviate discomfort during pregnancy, promote deeper and calmer breathing, improve blood circulation as well as lympathic movement, reduce blood pressure, improve posture, strengthen the immune system and treat insomnia, depression, and even eating disorders.
Which type of massage will suit me?
Types of massage are vast and varied. While some focus on relaxation, others manipulate deep tissue and help your muscles to recover from injury. As a client, you should always indicate any feelings of discomfort to your masseuse, who should adjust their pressure and technique to suit your needs.
Eight common types of massage:
- Deep tissue massage releases toxins and deeply held tensions. It’s used to alleviate sports injuries and chronic pain.
- Remedial massage repairs damaged muscles and tendons. No oils are used.
- Connective tissue massage relieves chronic tension, arthritic pain and improves posture. No oils or lotions are used either.
- Hot stone massage is for relaxation. Heated basalt stones are placed on the body’s acupressure points and used with oils to massage and relax the body.
- Chinese massage, including acupuncture and acupressure, alleviates pain and is usually performed while the client is sitting upright.
- Swedish massage releases muscle toxins and increases oxygen flow in the blood. It involves a sequence of techniques including kneading and circular pressure, shaking the body, tapping, bending and stretching.
- Thai massage increases flexibility and stimulates the internal organs. It’s performed on a floor mat and incorporates yoga movements.
- Shiatsu rebalances the body’s flow of energy. Elbows, forearms, knees and feet are used to apply pressure to special points on the body. It’s performed on the floor in conjunction with stretches.
Too shy to disrobe?
If you’ve never indulged in a massage because you’re uncomfortable with disrobing or have issues about your body, you’re not alone. Therapists understand each person is different and your comfort is their priority. If clients wish to leave their undergarments on, the therapist will work around them.
For those who are too uncomfortable to remove any items of clothing at all, don’t despair. Most places will allow you to leave your clothes on, but if you’re unsure, call ahead and check before making an appointment.
It’s also important to know your rights as a client. Your breasts and genitals should never be touched during a massage. You also have the right to end your session at any time if the therapist is causing you discomfort and not responding to your requests to lighten the pressure. You may be asked to pay for the session, but insist to only pay for the amount of time you spent with the therapist.
Massage deals in Australia
Ella Bache boutiques offer an anti-stress massage for $60 and have outlets throughout Australia. Visit their website
Ella Rouge offers one hour full body massage for $89 and operates in NSW. For more information on their services and locations, visit their website.
In Sydney you can’t go past Stone Soul for the very best Hot Stone Massage. Tried, tested and absolutely recommended. Visit their website.
The Golden Door Day Spas also offer an excellent menu of massage therapies. Visit their website.
Most major hotels also have a day spa and provide a full range of services to hotel guests as well as the general public. They are pricier but rather luxurious, and the perfect indulgence for a special occasion.
