Massage therapy has a long history in various cultures around the world. Today, people use many different types of massage therapy for a variety of health-related purposes. Here at Joseph & Friends, we offer a full range of massage options at our Roswell and Milton locations to suit your needs. If you’re new to this type of treatment, we understand the options can be a bit overwhelming. We will highlight the differences here to help you choose the best option for you.

Swedish. This is what most people visualize when they hear the word massage. The main goal of this type of massage is to relax the entire body. This is accomplished by rubbing the muscles with long gliding strokes in the direction of the blood flow towards the heart. Beyond relaxation, though, this type of massage is also beneficial for increasing the level of oxygen in the blood, decreasing muscle toxins, and improving circulation and flexibility.

Deep Tissue. Similar to Swedish massage, this type of massage includes deeper pressure and is an excellent option for releasing chronic muscle tension. This massage technique focuses on the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons, and fascia and the benefits include the reduction of stress hormones, decreased blood pressure, and an increase in the feel-good hormone serotonin.

Hot Stone. Hot stone massage is a specialty treatment using smooth, heated stones as an extension of your therapist’s hands or used in specific places on the body. The heat is deeply relaxing and can warm up tight muscles so the therapist can work more deeply. This type of massage relieves muscle tension and pain, reduces stress and anxiety, and promotes relaxation and sleep.

Reflexology. Reflexology is a therapy that is based on the principle that there are small and specific areas in the feet that correspond to specific muscle groups or organs of the body. Through the application of pressure on these particular areas of the feet, reflexology can promote benefits such as relaxation of tension, improvement of circulation, and support of normalized function in the targeted corresponding area. This technique is also an excellent choice for stress relief and relaxation.

Are you ready to relax and unwind? Joseph and Friends is here to help! Book an appointment at our Roswell and Milton locations online, or download our free mobile app from the AppStore, Google Play, or Amazon.