An increased awareness of the benefits of massage have prompted more people to explore the Shiatsu massage chair. In the past individuals could only get the benefits of a massage by leaving their home. Now that is no longer the case.

Many people are working in environments that create stress. This stress usually results in backaches and headaches. When they work at a computer all day they also suffer from neck pain at the end of the day. Making time to get a massage cannot be accomplished on a daily basis. Yet people find that they feel better when they receive a Shiatsu massage.

For people who cannot visit a massage therapist on a frequent basis, the Shiatsu massage chair is available for them. The chair provides all of the benefits of a professional massage in one’s home while blending in perfectly with the rest of the home’s furnishings.

The Shiatsu massage chair is designed to provide deep tissue massage from head to toe. Many of the chairs have adjustable calf and foot massagers which provide the same type of massage that one is receiving on their back, neck, and spine. The chairs have adjustable controls so that a person can set the width and speed of their massage.

The remote control that accompanies the chair allows an individual to choose specific areas for massage. There are also several pre-programmed massages that are available with the touch of a button. Using the remote one controls the actions of the entire chair. It is very easy to make adjustments for the width of area to be massaged. The Shiatsu massage chair that has a built in arm massage unit provides relief to people who work at a computer all day. The massage focuses on the hands and wrists of the user. This massage provides the deep tissue massage and heat that is helpful for carpal tunnel.

When selecting a Shiatsu massage chair you want to be sure that the chair is comfortable and durable. The motors of these chairs are very important to the overall functioning of the massage units. Some of the chairs have as many as eight motors running the chair. The motors should be quiet and provide smooth uninterrupted massage and reclining features.

When choosing the Shiatsu massage chair, make sure that it is easy to keep clean.  You will find that this is the one chair in the house that will get the most use, so keeping food and liquids away from the area is a wise idea to ensure that no spills occur that can damage the machine.

Realize your professional dreams as an expert massage practitioner when you complete your healing arts training at the Academy of Massage Therapy. Situated in Hackensack, New Jersey, the Academy of Massage Therapy is Accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA), and is an important educational resource to all those seeking comprehensive training to become a certified massage therapist or certified clinical massage therapist.

The 1,149-hour clinical massage therapy program at the Academy of Massage Therapy can be completed in just 12 months. Students enrolled in this in-depth course of study receive hands-on training in a vast assortment of natural health sciences and massage modalities; including anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, CPR and first aid, pathology, neurology, deep tissue massage, sports massage, hydrotherapy, medical massage, Swedish massage, chair massage, prenatal massage, foot reflexology, and even Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), among many other studies.

In less than nine months, students can complete the 614-hour massage therapy program at the Academy of Massage Therapy. In addition to anatomy and physiology, students participating in the massage therapy course acquire practical training in deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, sports massage, chair massage, hydrotherapy, prenatal massage, and much more.

Some of the various educational electives and continuing education programs that the Academy of Massage Therapy offers its students include instruction in Anma (Japanese deep tissue massage), foot reflexology, hot stone massage, raindrop technique, manual lymph drainage (MLD), Reiki, Shiatsu, Thai massage, and Trigger Point Therapy, among others.

As part of its strong commitment to students and alumni, the Academy of Massage Therapy provides essential career assistance services and participates in a number of financial aid programs. Now is the time to put your healing hands to work for you and achieve the profession for which you are destined — learn more about the Academy of Massage Therapy.

Featured School the Week: Academy of Massage Therapy

Copyright 2008

The CollegeBound Network

All Rights Reserved

NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.

You may be surprised to discover just how many different forms, types and variations of massage there are. When you have a session with a professional massage therapist you won’t necessarily receive the same massage technique as the next client. Massage therapists train in different types of massages and use their expertise to determine which massage style will be best for you. Some of the most common massage techniques include:

Swedish Massage- undoubtedly the most common form of massage. Swedish massage is known for its ability to bring the body into a state of relaxation and is often the first massage technique that therapists learn. Swedish Massage does not involve deep tissue or layers but is reserved to the upper most layers of the skin and muscle.

Sports Massage- this massage is used to treat the injuries that are often associated with various athletes due to the sports they participate in. This type of massage is also effective in preventing sports related injuries as well as treating them. One of the best benefits of Sports Massage is found in the fact that muscles and ligaments may be stretched and lengthened during these sessions. This results in enhanced athletic performance.

Deep Tissue Massage- this type of massage is performed more deeply upon the muscle and tissue compared to other types. Due to the nature of this massage, it is very beneficial in treating various types of chronic pain. It is important to realize that due to the amount of friction used in this type of massage, patients may experience a slight degree of discomfort following the treatment.

Reflexology- many people refer to Reflexology as a foot massage, however it is more involved than simply massaging the feet. Reflexology is based upon the Acupressure points that reside in the foot. The belief is that stimulation and massage on these points will connect with various points throughout the body.

Spa Therapies- this type of massage is found in spas and resorts. It may be a combination of other types of massage and combine other elements that are being used in the spa. These may include aromatherapy, deep tissue, reflexology, hydrotherapy, and much more.

Thai Massage- sometimes referred to as Thai Yoga Massage, this form of massage combines many of the stretching poses of yoga with deep, vigorous massage techniques.

Shiatsu- otherwise known as Japanese Massage, Shiatsu uses the same pressure points in Chinese Acupressure and Acupuncture to perform deep tissue bodywork.

Hot Stone Massage- this type of massage uses hot or heated stones that are placed on certain points in the body. The heat from the stones relaxes tight and tense muscles and is believed to bring balance to the body.

Pregnancy or Prenatal Massage- this massage is used to help promote circulation, relaxation, and reduce stress in expectant mothers. It is important that pregnant women use a professional to perform these massages as too much stimulation may have a negative effect on the baby. Pregnant women should also be in specific positions while they are being massaged as well.

You may be surprised to discover just how many different forms, types and variations of massage there are.

When you have a session with a professional massage therapist you will not necessarily receive the same massage technique as the next client.

Massage therapists train in different types of massages and use their expertise to determine which massage style will be best for you. Some of the most common massage techniques include:

Swedish Massage – undoubtedly the most common form of massage. Swedish massage is known for its ability to bring the body into a state of relaxation and is often the first massage technique that therapists learn. Swedish Massage does not involve deep tissue or layers but is reserved to the upper most layers of the skin and muscle.

Sports Massage – this massage is used to treat the injuries that are often associated with various athletes due to the sports they participate in. This type of massage is also effective in preventing sports related injuries as well as treating them. One of the best benefits of Sports Massage is found in the fact that muscles and ligaments may be stretched and lengthened during these sessions. This results in enhanced athletic performance.

Deep Tissue Massage – this type of massage is performed more deeply upon the muscle and tissue compared to other types. Due to the nature of this massage, it is very beneficial in treating various types of chronic pain. It is important to realize that due to the amount of friction used in this type of massage, patients may experience a slight degree of discomfort following the treatment.

Reflexology – many people refer to Reflexology as a foot massage, however it is more involved than simply massaging the feet. Reflexology is based upon the Acupressure points that reside in the foot. The belief is that stimulation and massage on these points will connect with various points throughout the body.

Spa Therapies – this type of massage is found in spas and resorts. It may be a combination of other types of massage and combine other elements that are being used in the spa. These may include aromatherapy, deep tissue, reflexology, hydrotherapy, and much more.

Thai Massage- sometimes referred to as Thai Yoga Massage, this form of massage combines many of the stretching poses of yoga with deep, vigorous massage techniques.

Shiatsu – otherwise known as Japanese Massage, Shiatsu uses the same pressure points in Chinese Acupressure and Acupuncture to perform deep tissue bodywork.

Hot Stone Massage – this type of massage uses hot or heated stones that are placed on certain points in the body. The heat from the stones relaxes tight and tense muscles and is believed to bring balance to the body.

Pregnancy or Prenatal Massage- this massage is used to help promote circulation, relaxation, and reduce stress in expectant mothers. It is important that pregnant women use a professional to perform these massages as too much stimulation may have a negative effect on the baby. Pregnant women should also be in specific positions while they are being massaged as well.

Massage therapy has been around for hundreds of years. If you need to relief from muscle pain or stress, you can choose from one of the ten best types of massage therapy around.

1. First is Swedish massage therapy. This happens to be the most common type to find in the US because it is very gentle and relaxing. Here, the masseuse will use long strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil.

2. Next is aromatherapy and the reason why it is called such is because one or more scented plant oils are used during the session. You will just have to select the oil you want to use. In fact, the most popular one is lavender as it is well suited for stress related conditions together with an emotional component.

3. There is also hot stone massage. Here, heated smooth stones are placed on certain parts of the body to help loosen those tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. At times, the masseuse may also apply gentle pressure especially for those who have muscle tension.

4. Then there is deep tissue massage. This type is designed to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Here, the masseuse will use slow strokes better known as friction techniques across the grain of the muscle.

The distinctive feature of deep tissue massage is that it is used on those that have chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems and recovery from injury. You will often feel sore for the next day or two.

5. Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage therapy. Here, the masseuse will use localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for 2 to 8 second designed to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. Those who have tried it say that it is relaxing yet firm. The best part is that there is no soreness afterwards.

6. Thai massage is similar to Shiatsu because it aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Part of the session also includes compressions and stretches as you are moved in a variety of postures just like yoga but in this case, you don’t do anything except go with the flow.

7. For women that are expecting, they can opt for pregnancy massage. It is designed to relieve stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pins as well as reduce anxiety and depression.

8. Reflexology is also known as foot massage because it involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot. Those who practice this believe that the foot corresponds to certain organs and systems so if you are able to work on that, you have also done it in the whole body.

9. Then there is sports massage that is designed for people involved in sports activities. This type is designed not only for professional athletes since it helps prevent and treat physical injuries.

10. Lastly is back massage which usually lasts 30 minutes. Unlike reflexology that focuses on the feet because it represents special points in the body, this one simply relieves tension in the back caused by lifting heavy objects or driving for long periods of time.

Of course there are other kinds of massage therapy aside from the top ten most popular ones mentioned. Given that these are the only ones available in spas, perhaps you should just stick with the best sellers.

Whilst many just use the phrase “massage”, there are in fact many different types of massage available which concentrate on a particular part of the body or a particular method of administrating the therapy. Listed below is a brief description of the top ten types of massage offered today by masseurs.

Swedish massage therapy: This is the most common type to be offered by masseurs because it is very gentle and relaxing. The masseuse will use long strokes, kneading and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. The result is a refreshed, calm and renewed feeling for the body.

Aromatherapy: The reason why it is called such is because one or more scented plant oils are used during the session. During the session, you will select the oil you want to use. In fact, the most popular one is lavender as it is well suited for stress related conditions together with an emotional component.

Hot stone massage: Heated smooth stones are placed on certain parts of the body to help loosen those tight muscles and balance energy points in the body. At times, the masseuse may also apply gentle pressure especially for those who have muscle tension.

Deep tissue massage: This type is designed to target the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Here, the masseuse will use slow strokes better known as friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. The distinctive feature of deep tissue massage is that it is used on those that have chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems and recovery from injury. You will often feel sore for the next day or two.

Shiatsu: This massage therapy originated from Japan. Here, the masseuse will use localised finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for 2 to 8 second designed to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. Those who have tried it say that it is relaxing yet firm. The best part is that there is no soreness afterwards.

Thai: As it also aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific parts, it is similar to Shiatsu. Part of the session also includes compressions and stretches as you are moved in a variety of postures just like yoga but in this case, you don’t do anything except go with the flow.

Pregnancy: For women that are expecting, they can opt for a specialist pregnancy massage. It is designed to relieve stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains as well as reduce anxiety and depression.

Reflexology: This is also known as foot massage because it involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot. It is believed that the foot in fact corresponds to certain body organs and systems so if this is worked on therefore the whole body will benefit.

Sports: This is designed for people involved in sports activities. Professional atheletes benefit from this treatment the most but anyone who is involved in sport should consider this as it assists in helping to prevent and treat injuries.

Back & Neck: Unlike reflexology that focuses on the feet because it represents special points in the body, this one simply relieves tension in the back and neck caused by lifting heavy objects or driving for long periods of time.

When you come to Thailand do yourself a favor and treat yourself to a massage.

There are different types of massages to choose from. Before I explain the different types I would like to stress that anyone having muscle injuries, problems such as thrombosis, varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, skin disease, heart conditions, cancer, wounds, cuts, ulcers, diabetes or arthritis should consult with their physician first before getting a massage. Once you get the physicians blessing and you have decided on the practioner you should let them know of any conditions which you may have which they should be aware of. You don’t want someone pulling on your fingers if you suffer from arthritis. Some of the more established massage salons will have you fill out a form before your massage so that they will know more about you and how best to massage your body.

Also before the massage remove body rings, watch, bracelets, or other items which might interfere with massage or restrict the circulation and movements. And the best time for the massage is when you are in a good frame of mind.

There are many types of massages but rather than detail each and every one we will concentrate on the more more popular types.

1) Swedish Massage:

Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, after applying massage lotion or oil on your body.

2) Aromatherapy Massage:

Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs.

The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc. One of the most common oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.

3) Deep Tissue Massage:

Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

4) Shiatsu:

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for for 2 to 8 seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance.

People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.

5) Reflexology:

Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. This type of massage works the internal organs of the body through manipulation of pressure points on the soles of your feet, applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.

6) Thai Massage:

You will have to decide between Thai traditional massage or Thai oil massage. The Thai traditional massge will likly be a little bit more strenuous with stretches, and utilizing the fingers, thumbs, knees, elbows and feet of the person giving the massage. This type of massage may be performed on a mattress on the floor to give the masseur or masseuse the ability to move around your body to apply pressure where required. Note that when I have received this type of massage the pressure has been firm but not excessive. I suffer from bad circulation in my legs and after a long flight my legs are particularly sore and in need of exercise or massage. The Thai oil massage may be performed on a table and be a bit more gentle.

Massage can be done for the purpose of relaxation or for relieving the symptoms of certain ailments. So first of all decide if it is your body or the mind that needs the massage the most. If it is the body then your best choices are deep tissue, shiatsu, relexology or Thai traditional massage. If it is the mind that needs the massage then go with Swedish, aromatherapy or Thai oil massage. Then decide if you want all or a part of your body massaged. It is possible to obtain a masssge for just the feet, or neck, shoulders and back, or a facial massage

For full body massage and where lotions of oils are applied it is best to shower before and after the massage. Otherwise your clothes will have the scent of the oil or lotion.

Should you come across a massage table where there is a whole at one end of the table then that is the end for your head. Yes your head fits into the hole.

There are also what some term as “dirty massages”. This is a massage salon which may offer more than a massage. Attendants may be selected from behind glass partitions and one of the offerings may be that of a “soapie massage”. Here the masseuse gives you a bath first followed by a massage. These types of massages are often found in what are called men’s clubs, or called health clubs. The premises may be considerably larger than that of a traditional Thai massage and much more decorative. The establishment may offer snooker, dining facilities, and karaoke besides massage services. You should understand that even though these establishments exist they should not be confused with the establishments which offer traditional Thai massage. For every large establishment that offers soapie massages there are probably another fifty that offer Thai traditional massage, oil massage, facial or foot massage.

The costs here in Thailand and downright cheap compared to most parts of the world. The hotel where you are staying may charge 50% to 200% of what the massage salon next door will charge. The surroundings may be a bit more opulent but other than that the massage may be identical. If you were here in Chiang Mai you could get a 2 hr. Thai traditional massage for only 400 baht or $10 US. So I would highly recommend that when you visit Thailand to find a good massage salon and treat yourself to a relaxing, comforting experience. The massage is very affordable, and the skills of the masseuses/masseurs is second to none.

Be sure to leave a tip for the person giving the massage if it met your expectations. The wages these people earn are very low and a decent tip can make someone’s day. If you want to save a buck or two on your vacation do it by booking cheaper accommodations rather than not tipping someone who deserves it.

In reality there are many legitimate massage facilities in many countries around the world where the masseurs or masseuses are required to have adequate training and, in some cases, even licenses before they can practice. Thailand is no different. Many of the staff performing massage in Thailand have completed massage school where they have undergone the training required for this specialized field of endeavour. After your massage you should experience either relaxation throughout the body or tranquillity of the mind, depending on which type of massage you selected. Tensions and concerns will evaporate, tight muscles will relax, and sometimes you may even fall asleep during the massage. With relaxed muscles, the blood circulation is improved. The body will receive more oxygen and nutrients and the immune system will be more efficient in fending off disease agents, thus lessening the chances of becoming ill. Pleasant surroundings are crucial. The most important factors are cleanliness, privacy, minimum noise level, a comfortable temperature, and good ventilation.

When the massage has been completed you should not get up immediately and get involved in strenuous or serious activities, but rather rest quietly for a few minutes in order to fully absorb the effects of the massage and appreciate the feeling of well-being and tranquillity.

You only live once so as I said earlier, treat yourself to a relaxing experience, you deserve it.

Open daily 10 a.m to 10 p.m. and if you Telephone 053-895571

you can get one of the lovely ladies to pick you up and bring you to the spa by car “for Free”.

Only a 5-7 min. walk from Central Mall (Huay Kaew Rd. location), 4 minute walk from H.S. Condotel 4 and 3 minute walk from Amari Rincome. So a great Spa and in a convenient location.

Included as part of our Chiang Mai Retirement services is a complimentary 1 1/2 hour massage at Doi View Massage & Spa. We want our clients whether they are male or female or couples to be relaxed after their long journey to Chiang Mai and how better to relax than with a soothing message

We selected Doi View Massage & Spa for three reasons.

1. The spa is set on the sixth and seventh floors in esquisite surroundings with a fantastic view.

2. For those people wanting entertainment or a meal before or after the spa there is a restaurant on the main floor and also the roofop Loft Pub & Restaurant which features fine dining with a panoramic inner city scene and the spectacular view of Doi Suthep at one glance.

3. And most importantly because of the attentive masseuses.

So if you visit beautiful Chiang Mai, Thailand and you are tired from your flight to Thailand call Doi View and book an appointment. Just say George sent me and get a 20% discount on your 1st Massage/Spa treatment. You deserve it.

For advice or assistance, accommodations or more view our website :

http://www.retire-on-550-month.com

We help people vacation in and retire to Chiang Mai, Thailand, a city that is unknown to many in North America but yet home to thousands of foreigners who liked it so much they moved here.

There is nothing more relaxing than a massage. Massages relieve the tension build up from your muscles, soothes your aches and pains, increases joint movement, decreases joint stiffness, aids in circulation, and more. Here are seven of the most popular types of massages therapies that work wonders:

Shiatsu: This is a massage originating from Japan. With this massage, the pressure points are the point of interest. It is similar to acupuncture. This massage is said to release impurities in the body and energy. Using the fingers and the palms of the hands the body is worked on to increase the blood flow. Stress is also eased with these movements. This type of massage is often done in a chair. It can be performed with or without lotion.

Deep Tissue: A vigorous massage that is often given to athletes to target the muscles of the body. A deep tissue massage feels wonderful if you have a lot of knots in your muscles. This massage is done using a great deal of pressure in order to ease tightness. If the pressure is too intense, you may have to request that your masseuse ease up a bit. This massage is not so much to relax you, but relax the muscle if you have an injury or pain in your back. Although some soreness might be felt, you will feel better later on perhaps even the next day. Extra time is taken with a deep tissue massage to make sure that all of your muscle groups are given equal attention.

Stone Massage: Heated rocks are used on the body that will relax the muscles. This type of massage helps with detoxifying the body and stress relief. Muscles are massaged as well during this time.

Swedish Massage: A complete body massage. A very common massage request. Kneading in a circular pattern and long strokes are performed using oil or lotion.

Aromatherapy Massage: This massage is done with the use of aromatherapy oils. The oils are used according to the type of mood that you are trying to achieve. Some of the choices that are most desirable are regarding energy and decreasing anxiety.

Reflexology: This is a massage that uses very smooth, fluid-like movements. This massage, like the rest, promotes circulation, and relieves muscle stiffness. This type of massage makes use of the pressure points on the body. A great deal of manipulation is done to the feet, hands, and ears for effectiveness.

Ayurvedic Massage: This massage focuses on pain relief. There have been some success stories with this type of massage and health problems, such as sciatica, hypertension, arthritis, and others types of medical problems.

No matter how you feel, a massage can only make you feel better. If you have never had a massage, treat yourself. You will feel so much better after all of your tension is worked out of your body. Be good to yourself. Go and enjoy a massage today.