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.

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.

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