Popular Massage Styles and Which One is Right For You
Excerpts taken from About.com: Alternative Medicine

1) Swedish Massage Therapy
This is the most common type of massage in the United States. It is also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy. Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.

2) Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc.) One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component.

3) Hot Stone Massage
Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting. Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.

4) Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

5) Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians with the client fully clothed. Each point is held for for 2 to 8 seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.

6) Thai Massage
Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches with the client again, fully clothed. You don't just lie there--the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures. It's like yoga without doing any work. Thai massage is more energizing than other forms of massage. It is also reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion.

7) Pregnancy Massage
Also called prenatal massage, pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage know the proper way to position and support the woman's body during the massage, and how to modify techniques. Pregnancy massage helps to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. The massage is customized to a woman's individual needs.

8) Reflexology
Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than a simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet. Reflexology can also be done to the hands.

9) Sports Massage
Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one-it's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus isn't on relaxation but on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance. A combination of techniques are used, mainly deep tissue and trigger points.The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

10.) INR Technique™™ (Imani's Naturalize Restructuring Technique)
The INR™ Technique primarily utilizes trigger point therapy, active release technique, muscle stripping and ROM stretches. The focus is on muscle attachments. This technique counteracts the activity or effects of trauma to muscles, then reintegrates the injured muscle.
This type of massage is especially great for those suffering from a traumatic experience or a specific muscle injury. Specific target areas will be addressed during the INR™ technique. This massage is not recommended for those who are seeking a relaxing experience.

11.)INR Body Tune-Up ™
INR Body Tune-Up ™s are 15 minute table massages with the client fully clothed. The goal behind INR Body Tune-Up ™s are to target chronic pain, such as carpal tunnel, headaches, neck pain, back pain, leg pain and sore feet. These massages can be defined as a shortened version of the INR™ technique with plenty of stretching. The INR Body Tune-Up ™ is a wonderful service targeted for those who don’t have a lot of spare time for an hour or ½ hour massage. You still receive the benefits of the finest bodywork in only 15 minutes. This is great for those who are interested in weekly body maintenance.

12.)Seated Chair Massage
A 15 or 20 minute stress relief massage is "More than just a back rub". Relaxes and soothes tense, knotted muscles in the head, neck, shoulders, back and arms. An abbreviated version on the INR Technique™ is used to facilitate our philosophy: pain relief + stress relief = relaxation & rejuvenation.