You're ready to get a massage, but you don't know which massage therapy style is right for you. Massage therapists offer multiple options, which fit with specific needs. Whether you're treating an injury or just trying to reduce stress, getting the right massage therapy is important.

Before you choose the massage therapy style for you, it's important to understand some of the common options. Let's look at a few of the styles you can choose and what they will help with.

Most Common Massage Therapy Styles to Choose From

1. Hot Stone Massage

A very popular massage therapy style, the hot stone massage offers deep muscle penetration. It can be used to help relieve tension, relax your muscles, and reduce your stress. If you’re familiar with professional massage therapy and you want a very relaxing massage, a hot stone massage is a good choice.

2. Relaxation Massage

A bit of a basic, but very relaxing option for your massage therapy, a relaxation massage will help reduce your stress. This is a common therapy style for those new to massage therapy. If you've never had a professional massage or you just want to relax, this is the right option for you.

3. Ashi (Barefoot) Massage

One of the most luxurious massage options you will find, the Ashi Massage is a very deep massage therapy style. This type of massage is designed for athletes and muscular people that weigh 260 pounds or more. It's a very deep massage that can be used to reduce lower back pain, loosen your muscles, and provide many other health benefits.

4. Deep Tissue Massage

Another very deep massage therapy style is deep tissue massage. This isn't as deep as the barefoot massage, but it's still a very deep and firm massage. If you want to loosen up tight muscles and get rid of knots, this is a great massage for you.

5. Swedish Massage

A rather common massage option used for relaxation, the Swedish massage is a softer massage using long kneading strokes. It's a great choice for someone new to massage and offers a way to relieve muscle tension.

6. Shiatsu Massage

Some massage therapists offer a shiatsu massage, which is a finger pressure massage. This type of massage therapy style will use acupressure points to help increase blood flow and relieve blockages in the body.

7. Pregnancy Massage

If you're pregnant, a pregnancy massage can help to reduce stress, relieve pain, and decrease swelling in the body. It's a very popular choice for pregnant women looking to gain relaxation.

There are many massage therapy styles to choose from. The right option for you depends on the benefits you want to gain and what type of issues you might be dealing with. If you're just trying to relax and relieve stress, a relaxation massage might be perfect for you.

However, if you're an athlete looking for maximum benefits, a deep tissue massage or a barefoot massage is likely the right choice for you. Of course, you can also book a couples massage and enjoy melting away the stress with your spouse or significant other.