Swedish

Swedish massage is considered the most common form of massage and uses firm pressure to promote relaxation, relieve muscle aches, and improve circulation.  The practitioner uses gliding strokes, tapping, kneading, and friction.  Massage oil is often used.

Deep Tissue

Deep muscle therapy massage uses slow strokes and intense pressure on connective tissue (the tissue that binds and strengthens the organs and other tissue, such as muscle).  This relieves the client of chronic tension and knots.  Deep muscle therapy can be slightly uncomfortable, and more than one session may be necessary to cure chronic tension.

Aromatherapy

Essential oils from plants are massaged into the skin in order to enhance the healing and relaxing effects of massage.  Essential oils are believed to have a powerful effect on mood by stimulating two structures deep inthe brain known to store emotions and memory. 

Sports

Sports massage reduces pain, promotes relaxation, and prevents injury in athletes.  It incorporates deep tissue massage, as the pressure applied may be stronger than other forms of massage.  Sports massage can be used before, during, or after a sporting event.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu/Accupressure is a traditional Japanese massage therapy.  It is based on the 5 Element Theory of Water, Wood, Fire, Earth and Metal, in which the practitioner uses fingers (especially thumbs) and palms to locate areas of stiffness and stress.  The idea is to bring energy (Chi) to depleted Meridians and to redistribute energy where there is too much.  The practitioner rubs, squeezes, and applies pressure to areas needing attention.  The client is fully clothed in comfortable clothing (important for stretching).

Prenatal

Designed specifically for pregnant women, this massage reduces stress, decreases swelling in the arms and legs, and relieves pain in the back, muscles and joints.  The client is appropriately propped with pillows during the session. 

Reflexology

Foot or sole massage, originally practiced by the Chinese, focuses on the body's qi, or energy.  According to this method, each organ in the body has a corresponding spot on the sole of the foot.  Massaging these specific points will ensure overall well-being.