As massage therapists, bodywork practitioners, or plain-out massage enthusiasts, we all enjoy a good massage – whether it is in the giving or the receiving end of it. There are several types of massages and each of us have our preferences; some might like a soft relaxing massage, while others prefer a deep tissue massage. There are however some massage techniques that have become widely popular, and are offered in most of the Spas and Wellness Centers all around the world, and these are the ones we are going to talk about here.
The Top 5 Massage Techniques Today
SWEDISH MASSAGE. As the name suggests, this massage is based on Western concepts of anatomy and physiology, and it is one of the most popular massages offered in Spas. It consists of a set of basic massage strokes such as effleurage, friction and tapotement and its duration is usually around 60-90min. The massage strokes are applied with the help of a fragrant massage oil, and the client is nude during the treatment. This is a great treatment to recommend someone who has not tried a massage before, as it is a very complete full body massage.
SPORTS MASSAGE. Here the goal is to help athletes or sports practitioners to train better. This massage, that can be classified as a deep tissue massage, can be applied before the sports event, or after it, with the aim of either preparing the muscles for the training, or helping them to recover afterwards. Sports massage is also used for curing injuries and easing chronic pain.
BACK&NECK&SHOULDER MASSAGE. This massage is named after the parts of the body it focuses on. Today many work in an office setting with computers, and strain their neck and shoulders easily. Back problems are also very common and can have very different causes such as poor posture at work or while doing sports, repetitive movements, pregnancy, etc. Stress and anxiety have a tendendy to tense especially the neck and shoulders, so massaging these areas can also effectively release stress.
TRADITIONAL THAI MASSAGE. This massage derives from traditional Thai medicine, and works on both the physical, mental and energy level of the human being. It is also called yoga massage sometimes, because it uses yoga-like stretches and poses apart from pressure. Thai massage is quite vigorous and stimulates the body on a deeper level. Another special thing about it, is that it is performed with the client fully dressed and on the floor on a futon or mattress. Thai massage reached the Western world only a few decades ago and now it is one of the most popular massages around.
SIGNATURE MASSAGE. The signature massage differs from the others on this list as it is not a massage technique as such. It is rather an exclusive treatment created for an individual Spa or Wellness Resort; a massage that can only be experienced in that particular Spa. More and more Spas and Wellness resorts are, either themselves or with the help of Spa consultants and trainers, creating their signature treatments, as this differentiates them from their competitors and offers their clients and guests a truly unique experience.
To end this post, I would very much like to know which are the Top 3 bestselling massages in your Spa or Massage center? Please share them in the comments section below and also feel free to share any tips on how to sell them!
Wishing you a meaningful day ahead,
Cesar Tejedor
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The most popular massage in the spa I work is couples massage and hot stone. The good thing about our spa is that it is located in a popular hotel so we market to the guest in their amenities package.
Hi Leslee, great thanks for your input! yes can imagine that especially in a hotel setting the couples massage is wanted!! Its good to hear that you can promote Spa treatments within the hotel services, as many times its sad to see that the hotels do not value the Spa as a great way to make an income and increase guest satisfaction!
Signiture massage is NOT a massage technique and is NOT the most sought after modality.
Hi! yes you are absolutely right in that Signature massage is not a massage technique as such…maybe the title is a bit confusing…but what I wanted to say here is that more and more Spas are adding signature massages and rituals to their treatment menus and that these can be very popular! of course the demand for them will vary from Spa to Spa.
Ahisatsu deep feet bar therapy.
Advanced trainings techniques
Aromatherapy, swedish ,hot stones