Over the past few years the emergence of day spas and beauty salons have grown exponentially. In the heart of any city there seems to be one on every corner, all offering various massage treatments and techniques.

But how do we know what massage is the right one to cure the pains from the football game on the weekend or remove the stress from a hard week at work?

Below I look at the various types of massages available and which one might be right for you!

"Massage is actually an art form, and a good massage will marry the traditions

of both the East and the West schools of thoughts."

Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurvedic massage is a form of treatment for various age related and other common disorders. Some of the advantages which can be cited are pain relief, improved circulation, stress relief, better sleep, flexibility, athletic performance and emotional benefits. Massage therapy can soothe pain, relax stiff muscles, and reduce the swelling that accompanies arthritis. Advocates claim that, with ayurvedic massage, deep-seated toxins in the joints and tissues are loosened and released into the system for elimination through natural toxin-release processes. There are several different types of ayurvedic treatments such as panchakarma, marma massage and abhyangam. Ayurvedic massage is especially developed in Sri Lanka and the Indian state of Kerala.

Swedish Massage

Swedish massage is a system of long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration and shaking motions that apply pressure between muscles and bones, rubbing in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. Swedish massage feels good, and is relaxing and invigorating.

The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Some other benefits include shortening recovery time from muscular strain, increased circulation without increased heart load, stretching of ligaments and tendons, skin stimulation and a soothing effect on the nervous system. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical, and is suggested as part of a regular program for stress management.

Thai Massage

Is an ancient art of body therapy for healing, health, and transformation.

Thai Massage is an interactive manipulation of the body using passive stretching and gentle pressure along energy lines. These movements help to

"adjust the skeletal structure

"increase flexibility

"relieve muscular and joint tension

"stimulate internal organs

"balance the body's energy system

The effect is uniquely relaxing as well as energizing. Receiving a Thai massage is a bit like doing yoga without putting forth any effort while also getting acupressure treatments!

Hawaiian Massage

Hawaiian massage is known as "Ka Huna", Lomi Lomi", or "Temple Style" massage. Traditionally, Hawaiian massage was part of the Hawaiian Rites of Passage as it is thought to be both transformational and healing. It balances the body and the mind, and heals a person physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Stone therapy massage

Stone therapy massage utilises both hot and cold stones incorporated with massage techniques in order to bring about a feeling of deep relaxation and wellbeing. The hot stones are usually volcanic rocks such as basalt and cold stones are marble or cool sedimentary stones. The stones are heated or chilled to varying temperatures and come in all shapes and sizes. The stones are placed on the client according to their needs and, when used with massage, can provide benefits that are not possible through normal massage.

For more information on the best places to receive the above massages, go to www.edocket.com.au/beauty.asp