Massage Techniques

Choosing which massage techniques to learn can dramatically influence the success you achieve as a massage therapist. But deciding on the best techniques is not just about money.

If you are interested in learning massage therapy and attending massage school, by now you have figured out that this is not a get rich quick industry. In fact, you won't even get rich slowly. But if you enjoy helping others and the healing aspects of massage, you are on the right track.

But choosing massage techniques that are suited to your personality will not only affect your income but also your overall job satisfaction. If you don't enjoy what you are doing, massage can be a very draining career. This is reflected in the high rates of therapists no longer practicing today. So choose wisely!

There are many massage techniques to choose from. From the very popular Swedish massage to the more obscure Thai massage (well, not so obscure if you are in Thailand). But don't feel like you have to practice Swedish if the massage technique doesn't interest you. You can still generate a lot of business through other modalities.

However, it is important to know a few different massage techniques in order to provide a better range of services to your clients. You will find it easier to fill up your appointment book if you offer choices as well as complimentary therapies. You can always upsell a customer receiving a Swedish massage to additional spa services. Complimentary therapies can range from facials, Pilates, yoga and helping your clients learn the art and practice of meditation.

Selecting Massage Techniques

It's as simple as reading through our description of each of the more common massage techniques. If you think you are interested in one, make sure that you go and receive a massage using that technique. Don't be afraid to ask the therapist with their experience practicing the modality. After all, you are paying for their time and they can give you the inside story on what techniques are in demand as well as what it is like to practice them on a regular basis (just try giving eight deep tissue massages in a row!).

What is the Best Massage Technique?

With so many massage modalities, how do you decide what to learn... Share your advice on the best massage techniques.

See what other massage therapists are saying about their favorite massage techniques.

Beyond the Physical Not rated yet
The best massage therapy that I have found to be the most healing involves accessing the mental side to relaxation as well as learning to influence another ...

Swedish Massage Not rated yet
I truly enjoy Swedish massage techniques because I try to make my massage treatments a combination of stress relief and some spirituality thrown in.

My ...

Shiatsu is my favorite Not rated yet
A message therapist employs only those techniques that bring about satisfactory results in her clients. In the past I have used many different techniques ...

My clients love Craniosacral Therapy Not rated yet
My favorite massage technique has to be Craniosacral Therapy. The focus of this technique is on the skull and spinal column. I use very gentle pressure ...

Personalize your Massage Technique Not rated yet
We all develop techniques and are drawn to one or the other based on our stamina or area of emphasis for what is needed for clients whether it be sports ...

Massaging technique Not rated yet
I'm basically an athlete. I undergo strenuous physical exercise and sometimes it might even lead to muscle pulls. So massaging has become highly necessary ...

Definitely Deep Tissue Not rated yet
I have found that deep tissue massage is not only the most effective technique, but it is also the most appreciated by my clients. It takes a lot of practice ...

Deep Tissue has it all Not rated yet
Without a doubt, deep tissue massaging is my favorite. It does take a while to master, and at first, I was a little scared, since outside of acupuncture,...