Find out how some of the massage styles offered by Urban massage can help you to relax and feel better.

‘There are many different types of massages, and their benefits differ according to the type you choose,’ says massage therapist Shelley. ‘You might think you know which type of massage you want when you book, but it’s well worth having a chat with your therapist first about what you are hoping to gain from it. He or she will be able to advise on the best type for you.’

Massage type: Swedish

Touch style: Kneading movements. ‘This massage can be as deep or as gentle as you like,’ says Shelley. ‘It’s all about stretching muscles, but the intensity can be modified to suit.’

Good for: Relaxation and people who suffer from anxiety or stress.

Massage type: Deep tissue

Touch style: Very intense, often using forearms, knuckles and elbows to get deeper into the muscles.

Good for: People who do a lot of sports, but also people who sit at a desk all day.

Massage type: Pregnancy

Touch type: Varies but often quite gentle. It’s carried out while you are seated or lying on your side, and not before 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Good for: The massage can be adapted according to the client’s needs, but typically it can help with lower back pain and water retention.

Massage type: Sports

Touch type: ‘It can vary but there’s always quite a lot of movement – moving limbs up and down to stretch out muscles and to get oxygen flowing where it’s needed most,’ says Shelley.

Good for: People who do regular sport – it can help prevent cramps. 

Massage type: Anti-cellulite

Touch type: Kneading of problem areas – usually the thighs. Knuckles and twisting movements may also be used. A course of treatments is recommended.

Good for: People with cellulite which can be difficult to tackle through exercise.

Massage type: Thai

Touch type: The therapist will use their hands, feet, legs and knees to move you into a sequence of yoga-like stretches. It also incorporates acupressure and can be carried out with oil, or fully-clothed on a floor mat.

Good for: Reducing stress, also increasing energy and improving circulation and flexibility.

Massage type: Reflexology

Touch type: Points on the feet, and sometimes also head and hands, are massaged to stimulate other parts of the body. The massage can vary in intensity according to the issues to be addressed.

Good for: Reflexology is good for all areas of the body. ‘It usually involves a longer consultation than other types to make sure the right areas are targeted,’ says Shelley. It’s good for fertility issues, anxiety and stress.

Check Urban Massage’s treatment page to find any of these treatments and more…

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Who are we? We’re Urban Massage – on a mission to make wellness rituals convenient and accessible without compromising on quality. So from just £49 an hour, you can enjoy a range of massages from an expert therapist at a time to suit you. Download the app or go to urbanmassage.com to book 60 minutes of restorative me time.