The Classic
Swedish massage is the most popular form of Western bodywork, and its movements are often used as the starting point of other massages. It’s the most requested massage at the Stillwater Spa at the Park Hyatt Toronto. Assistant spa manager Krista Foulis says, “consider it a maintenance massage where you can feel immediate results.”
What to expect: Long gliding strokes, kneading, circular friction, brisk tapping or shaking suited to your comfort level. Ask for light or heavy pressure.
Benefits: Releases knots and tension, leaving you feeling loose.
Best for you if: You want to relax without the frills.
Soothing Stones
Hot stone massage originated in Tucson, Arizona, in 1993. The technique, known as LaStone Therapy, has since found its way into spas all over the world. “Alternating temperatures of the stones will enhance the body’s ability to strengthen its internal systems,” says founder Mary Nelson. And it’ll feel really good!
What to expect: Combined with Swedish movements, smooth Basalt stones, heated to 50-60ºC, are used to rub away sore muscles.
Benefits: Claimed to reduce inflammation (bye-bye swollen ankles!), increase circulation, and expel toxins.
Best for you if: You like firm pressure and feeling warm.
Zen Session
Shiatsu massage, also known as acupressure, is based on traditional Chinese medicine, and the belief that illness results from energy imbalances in the body.
What to expect: A brief assessment of your meridian points (to determine where energy blockages exist) followed by firm kneading and stretching to release the flow of chi (good energy) to the rest of your body. Wear loose, light clothing, as you’ll often stay dressed.
Benefits: Increases flexibility, relieves stiff muscles and improves circulation.
Best for you if: You have specific sore spots and don’t mind some strong pressure to get rid of them.
Game On
Before you run that 10k, get mentally and physically ready with a brisk sports massage. Go back afterward for a relaxing version to help break down lactic acid.
What to expect: An energetic 15-20 minute session of compression, kneading and pressure applied to tendons and joints.
Benefits: Helps to increase blood flow to muscles, which increases oxygenation of the tissues. It also increases the elasticity of muscles and tendons – like stretching – so it helps to prevent injuries. And it’ll get you pumped.
Best for you if: You play sports or run.
Resource: Visit the Canadian Sport Massage Therapists Association (csmta.ca ) for a therapist near you.
Moms-to-Be
Just because you can’t lie on your stomach at home doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy and benefit from a trip to the spa.
What to expect: Gentle massage on the most strained areas: back, neck, legs and feet. Spas use special tables or pillows designed to support a pregnant belly.
Benefits: Helps relieve pressure from weight gain and fluid retention, and promotes more restful sleep.
Best for you if: You’re in the second or third trimester. Consult your doctor first.
Foot Loose
Reflexology is based on the theory that pressing specific spots on the feet stimulates other parts of the body.
What to expect: Thumb pressure on specific spots followed by slow rotating movements on sensitive points. The therapist uses this to identify health problems from asthma to the common cold.
Benefits: “Reflexology works with the lymphatic system to help the body rid itself of toxins and impurities,” says certified reflexologist Laurie Saunders. “It will help clean up the sinuses, eliminate congestion in the chest and help reduce inflammation.”
Best for you if: You’re on your feet all day, or want to address aches and pains with an alternative health practitioner.
The RMT Massage
Only British Columbia, Ontario, and Newfoundland and Labrador regulate massage therapy. You may be able to claim a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) massage as a health benefit – in B.C. under BCMED or with the health insurance at your workplace.
Resources
- cmta.ca: Canadian Massage Therapist Alliance
- massagetherapy.bc.ca (in B.C.)
- rmtfind.com (in Ontario)
- cmtnl.ca (in Newfoundland)