Which Massage is best for me?

Spafinder Team4 min read
First-Time-Massage
Spa enthusiasts enjoy a variety of massage services at day spas and on spa vacations. Learn about the most popular spa massages.

Like many people, you’re probably aware of the many benefits of massage and might even have tried one. But do you know your swedish from your deep tissue or sports and when to choose one style over another?

Whether you’re new to massage or are looking to broaden your horizons, you’re sure to find a style that’s right for you. A good massage can relieve stress and pain, and completely reset you. It also benefits your immunity and increases flexibility.

Massage therapists can specialize in over 80 different types of massage, called modalities, which range from everything from the Swedish massage, to deep-tissue massage, to reflexology, to acupressure.

While these means there are a lot of options, this can also be overwhelming. Below take a look at the several options you have so you can better choose from massage therapies and figure out which ones you’d like to see.

Spa-aficionados are more adventurous now and new massage styles merged- some centuries old and others brand new.

View the guides below to the various modalities with greater detail about each and how it may correspond to you.

Popular Spa Massages


woman receiving shiatsu massage

Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu Massage guide including history and the benefits of this treatment and what to expect with a shiatsu massage. Read more | Find Shiatsu Massage


Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone

Find out why hot stone massages can make you sizzle or help you cool off before you book your next treatment! Read more | Find Hot Stone Massage


Reflexology Massage

Reflexology Massage

Enjoy a treat for the feet with this reflexology guide, and learn what to expect and what you need to know before you book this treatment. Read more | Find Reflexology


Rolfing

Rolfing Massage

Rolfing is a soft-tissue manipulation used to structurally realign the body and enhance overall vitality. Read more


Myofascial Massage

Myofascial Massage

Myofascial release techniques are used to equalize muscle tension throughout the body. Unequal muscle tension can compress nerves and muscles causing pain. Progress is measured by a decrease in the patient’s pain and by an improvement in overall posture. Read more


Couples Massage

Couples Massage

Spa-goers can share a pampering experience with a significant other. A couple’s massage isn’t just for romantics, though—mother-daughter duos and best friends may also enjoy some spa-bonding time with side-by-side services.  Read more | Find Couples Massage


pregnant woman holding her stomach

Prenatal Massage

What moms and moms-to-be should be expecting before Prenatal Massage including benefits and tips! Read more | Find Prenatal Massage


Back Massage

Back Massage

Do you know your lomilomi from your tui na, and when to choose one style over another? SpaFinder goes back to the basics, offering a crash course on back massage, the most fundamental and popular of all spa services.  Read more | Find Back Massage


Scalp Massage

Scalp Massage

Scalp massage guide including the benefits of this spa treatment as an add-on to another service or as an exclusive treatment. Read more | Find Scalp Massage


woman receiving thai massage on the floor

Thai Massage

Everything you need to know about Thai Massage often called “lazy yoga,” including the history and what to expect when you get this treatment. Read more | Find Thai Massage


Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurvedic Massage is based on ancient Indian principles designed to heal the body and create a balance between mind, body, and spirit. Learn about all of the elements, including the central concept, dosha, that encompass Ayurvedic Massage.  Read more | Find Ayurveda Massage


Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep-Tissue Massage targets your body’s deepest layers of muscle and releases tension in overstressed areas. It’s perfect for athletes and those who desperately need to de-stress at the spa. Read more | Find Deep Tissue Massage


Hawaiian/Lomi Lomi Massage

Hawaiian/Lomi Lomi Massage

Lomilomi Massage guide including the history of this massage, what to expect and what to ask before you book. Read more | Find Lomi Lomi Massage


Four Hands Massage

Four Hands Massage

Four-Hands Massage is a relaxing two-on-one treatment where two massage therapists perform a full body massage, allowing for deep relaxation for body and mind. Read more | Find Four-Hands Massage


Swedish Massage

Swedish Massage

If you’re just getting started with massage, Swedish Massage is a great way to begin. It’s one of the most popular treatments on spa menus around the world. Read more | Find Swedish Massage

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