A massage is not just the best way to pamper yourself; it can also heal your body and mind. Here is the list of the best international massages that are available in your neighbourhood spas and their health benefits. Hot stone therapyThis massage was invented in 1993 in Arizona and has, since then, been a favourite with various spas all over the world. It helps relax tight muscles and uses smooth, heated stones, preferably basalt (a volcanic rock rich in iron), that can absorb or retain heat. “The heat of the stones helps relax muscles faster than a traditional massage. It helps circulation and calms the nervous system. However, if you have muscle injury, cold stones are sometimes used,” says Devendra Bharma, general manager, Oberoi Spas. The stones may be placed on the spine, in between toes and on palms. The massage helps relieve back pain, insomnia and depression. “Despite its benefits, it is not recommend to those with serious sport injuries. Also, pregnant women should avoid it,” says fitness expert Leena Mogre. Hawaiian massageThis massage uses palms and elbows rhythmically to soothe tense muscles and allow healing energy to flow freely. “The Hawaiians look at things in terms of energy flow. They believe that an idea or belief can block energy as much as muscle tension can. Lomi Lomi helps release these blockages and facilitates healing on the emotional level as well,” says Bharma. The masseuse starts with resting the hands on the person’s back and saying a short prayer. The client is then asked the about the form of healing he would like. “It’s an intuitive massage and there is a connection formed between the client and the therapist. That is why no two Hawaiian massages can be the same,” says Sudeshna Pal, spa manager, The Park. “This massage is good for people suffering from depression or any other mental stress, as a connection is formed between the therapist and the client,” says psychiatrist Samir Parikh. Balinese massageThis deep pressure massage uses medium-depth strokes and pressure points to reach beneath muscle layers. “It’s a head-to-toe massage that includes acupressure, stretching, long strokes, skin rolling, kneading and palm and thumb pressure techniques to relieve tension, ease stress and calm the mind,” says Monika Negi, operations manager, Asian Roots Luxury Day Spa. The massage soothes damaged tissue and relieves strained muscles and joint pain, apart from helping with a wide range of ailments such as migraine and asthma. “This massage works well for those with sport injuries. I recommend it for those who get injured during training. It helps to get back in shape fast,” says Mogre. Aromatic massageThis is the most common massage. Relaxing strokes are blended with frictional strokes to allow the body’s internal system to benefit from the properties of the blended oil. While the oil works in enriching the skin, the warming effect of this massage helps improve blood circulation and relieve tired muscles. “This massage works well for those who are looking to refresh and renew their body,” says Bharma. “The massage is also very good for one’s skin, provided the right oils are used,” says dermatologist Sanjiv Jain. So, make sure you inform the masseuse of your skin type.
