Hot stones, Swedish, aromatherapy; there are as many different types of massage as there are steps in a Korean skincare regime. So, which one is best for you? We’ve called upon the expert to find out the different benefits of every single type of massage.
Hot stone
This particular massage makes use of smooth, flat volcanic rocks that have been heated prior to the treatment.
“The hot stones diffuse warmth throughout the treatment and usually placed where muscles meet or where there are collections of nerve endings like the feet,” says Nadège, in-house therapy expert at Urban Massage.
They can either be placed on key areas on the body to heat the muscles and melt away tension, or else used as a kneading tool by the therapist, used in circular motions or deep strokes to hone in on certain muscles.
Your therapist will usually also incorporate traditional hands-on massage techniques and accompany the treatment with oils to ensure a smooth experience.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has been relied upon for centuries for its holistic and healing benefits, able to boost our moods as well as help to alleviate certain health conditions.
The premise of aromatherapy is that different essential oils (highly concentrated plant extracts) have different benefits, meaning that a massage can be tailored to best suit you at that moment.
If you’re feeling particularly anxious, your therapist may suggest lavender, frankincense or rose essential oils, while if you’re in need of an energy boost, you may want to opt for rosemary, lemon or eucalyptus.
Swedish
You’ve probably seen this type of massage on every spa menu, but never been completely sure what it entails.
The Swedish massage is often considered to be the classic Western massage and relies on five main techniques; stroking, kneading, tapping, vibrating and rubbing.
Each one of techniques is used from top to toe to ease muscle pain and promote overall relaxation.
