Types of Massage, Bodywork, and Somatic Therapies

There are a variety of bodywork techniques.

Following are brief descriptions of just a few.

Swedish Massage—The most common form

of massage, Swedish mainly relaxes the mus-

cles and eases aches and pains.

Sports Massage—For the athlete, sports
massage techniques are utilized at all stages:
pre-event, post-event, during training, and to
expedite rehabilitation after injury.

Ashiatsu-A deeply relaxing barefoot massage technique using deep compression effleurage strokes that glide over the body. Bars are used above the head for support and balance and lubricant is applied to the body.



Shiatsu—Japanese acupressure massage that
restores energy to the body.

Trager—Utilizes rhythmic rocking move-
ments to relax the body and mind.

Hellerwork—A combination of movement
reeducation and muscle and connective tissue
therapy.

Polarity—Balances the energetic systems of
the body.

Reflexology—Massage of the feet, hands,
and/or ears. Stimulates corresponding areas
in the body.

There are more than one hundred fifty varia-
tions of massage, bodywork, and somatic
therapy techniques. Many practitioners utilize
an integration of techniques.

Why Should I Receive A Massage? Compliments Of:
©2006 Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals member