Massage – What Are All The Different Types?

Do you know the difference between deep tissue and sports massage? How about holistic massage and tui na?  Or ayurvedic foot massage and thai foot massage?

There are many, many types of massage and even more different names for them.  Here at Ashlins we offer 14 types and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!  How do you know which type is best for you?

To help make sense of things we spoke to our team of massage therapists.  To book an of our massages, call us on 020 8250 5268.

Face and Head Massages

Facial Rejuvenation Massage

“Reduce facial lines by increasing blood circulation through the various steps of massage to your face and neck. The treatment does not involve the use of any products or chemicals. For best results a course of 6 treatments is recommended.” says Rina and Tatina.

Indian Head Massage

Katrina describes IHM as “pressure, kneading and stretching techniques are gently applied to your head, neck, shoulders, upper back and arms in order to soothe and relax both body and mind.  Indian head massage is performed sitting upright, fully clothed, making it a quick and simple way to squeeze massage in to your schedule.”

Abdominal Massage

“Gentle massage to the abdomen and abdominal organs. The aim is to promote the flow of blood and lymph fluid in the area, to relieve muscular tension and facilitate movement of the organs.” says therapist Jane Hickson.

Foot Massages

Ayurvedic (Kansa Vatki) Foot Massage

Therapist Rina says “a special bowl made up of 3 metals is used to massage the feet and lower legs. A combination of circular and stroking movements are applied to relax tight muscle and soothe tired feet. It is believed that the massage influences the bio-energetic principles of ayurveda.”

 Thai Foot Massage

According to Sylwia, “thai foot massage is a gentle therapy based on the Wat Pho sequence from Thailand.  Pressure points in the foot and lower leg are worked on using the therapists hands, with a small wooden stick used on more specific areas.  This massage is great for aching feet and legs as it relieves muscle tension, promotes circulation and relaxes the body.”

Whole Body Massage

Therapeutic Massage

Also known as ‘stress release’ and ‘holistic’ massage, therapeutic massage is your standard full body massage therapy.  Therapists can work on your whole body or focus on problem areas.

Dympna describes it as “a variety of massage techniques to release tension, stretch muscles, relieve stress and promote relaxation.  Therapeutic massage is not as ‘deep’ as some other forms of massage, making it a great introduction to the therapy.  It is also perfect for those who prefer a more gentle experience.”

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage involves working on ‘deeper’ muscles than a basic therapeutic massage.   The therapist uses extra pressure to work through more superficial layers and reach deeper structures.

Receiving a deep tissue massage helps relieve muscle tension and stiffness.

Sports Injury Therapy

Sports injury massage is the use of a range of massage techniques and exercises to aid recovery from injuries.

Massage therapists under go a period of extra study in order to treat sporting injuries.  This enables them to recognise common injuries, understand how they may have been caused, their likely recovery time and the required treatment.

Aromatherapy Massage

Elizabeth says “We will listen carefully to your problem before selecting a bespoke blend of essential oils to suit your needs. This blend is then gently massaged in to the body, leaving you feeling relaxed and de-stressed.”

Hot Stone Massage

Smooth lava stones are heated to a comfortably warm temperature before being used to massage your muscles with long stroking motions. The heat is deeply relaxing and helps warm up tight muscles so the therapist can work more deeply, more quickly.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Lymphatic drainage massage aims to promote the movement of lymphatic fluid and hence provide optimal conditions for the lymphatic system to operate.

Thai Yoga Massage and Thai Combination Massage

Often described as “yoga for lazy people”, thai yoga massage combines acupressure massage with yoga stretches. The therapist uses their hands, elbows, feet and knees to stimulate pressure points.

Tui Na

Tui na massage is an ancient eastern therapy to relieve pain and promote healing.  It utilises two hundred different manipulations ranging from gentle and superficial to vigorous deep tissue massage.

Call 020 8520 5268 to book your next massage.