We are the choices we make. Sometimes the choices are relatively simple: do we choose chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry ice cream? Other times, the choices are more significant: do we visit Cancun or Jamaica for vacation? And on other occasions, our choices are a fork-in-the-road in our lives: do we continue to rent an apartment, or make a down- payment on a new house? When providing a therapeutic massage, one of the most important choices to make is regarding the type of massage to give. Each type of massage has a different style and approach. As a therapist, which types of massage therapies are preferable? It depends.



Though numerous types of massages exist, it is important to be familiar with the basic varieties:

1. Back massage. This type of massage typically lasts 30 minutes, and focuses on both the back and neck. I struggle from time-to-time from back spasms, and can attest to the effectiveness of this type of massage.

2. Shiatsu. Shiatsu is a variety of Japanese massage that uses finger pressure on local regions of the body. The pressure is applied in a series of rhythms, on acupuncture lines on the body. The pressure points are held for multiple seconds, creating balance in the body and boosting the energy flow in the patient. The benefits of shiatsu are that while the pressure remains solid, typically no pain occurs after the massage session.

3. Aromatherapy Massage: This type of therapy combines massage therapy with one or multiple scented plant oils, or essential oils. Whether you need to boost your energy, lower your stress levels, or simply relax, the therapist chooses the right oil for the right effect. Aromatherapy is particularly ideal for reducing stress, with therapists choosing lavender as one of the most frequently used essential oils.

4. Reflexology. People often refer to this type of massage as a "foot massage," but "foot massage plus" would probably be a better title for it. The theory behind his type of massage therapy is that various pressure points on the foot are linked to various organs and systems throughout the body. For those who work on their feet, reflexology is heaven on Earth.

5. Swedish Massage Therapy: This is the one of America's most popular massage therapies. It is a mild and relaxing massage that uses oil or lotion. Swedish Massage Therapy applies lengthy strokes, rubs and circulates motions on the outside muscle layers.

6. Thai Massage. Thai massage therapy uses mild pressure on specific pressure points, to align the body's energies; stretches and compressions. From my experience, this is the most "mobile" massage therapy. The therapist places the patient in various yoga-like postures. Having the therapist cling to your back like a backpack is awkward, but ultimately this massage method is perfect for improving your range of motion, lowering stress levels, and boosting flexibility.

7. Hot stone massage. A massage with hot stones involves smooth, heated stones (usually Basalt) that are positioned on particular points of the body. They are used to heat and stabilize energy centers within the body, and to relax stiff muscles. In addition, the therapist can grip the stones themselves while giving the massage, using them to apply a moderate pressure. A massage with hot stones is perfect for those with tight muscles, but who also need a gentler massage therapy.

As a massage therapist, you have several massage therapies in your battery of ways to battle your patient's stress, pain and fatigue. Massages such as those with hot stones can help your patient to truly feel like the same person in a new body. You can tell him or her, "You have chosen wisely."