A Swedish massage is a popular type of therapeutic massage that uses a combination of various techniques designed to relax the entire body. It involves using long, gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart, as well as kneading, deep circular movements, and tapping. These techniques help increase oxygen flow in the blood, release muscle toxins, improve circulation and flexibility, and ease tension. The overall goal is to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension, and create other health benefits. 

A deep tissue massage is a type of therapeutic massage that focuses on realigning deeper layers of muscles and connective tissue. It uses slower, more forceful strokes and deeper pressure than a Swedish massage. This technique is especially beneficial for individuals with chronic aches and pains, stiff necks, upper back issues, low back pain, leg muscle tightness, and sore shoulders. The primary aim is to target the deeper layers of muscle and fascia to release chronic muscle tension and improve muscle function. 

Trigger point therapy is a type of massage therapy that targets specific areas of muscle that have developed tight, painful knots, known as trigger points. These trigger points can cause pain both at their location and referred pain in other parts of the body. The therapy involves applying pressure to these points to alleviate the tension and pain. Techniques used in trigger point therapy may include sustained pressure, deep breathing, and stretching. The goal is to release the tightness in the muscles, reduce pain, and improve mobility.

Cranial sacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, non-invasive form of bodywork that focuses on the craniosacral system, which includes the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Practitioners use light touch, typically no more than the weight of a nickel, to palpate the rhythm of the craniosacral system and identify areas of restriction or imbalance. By applying subtle manipulations, CST aims to relieve tension, improve the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, and enhance the body's natural healing processes. It is often used to treat a variety of conditions, including headaches, neck and back pain, stress, and tension-related disorders, among others. 

Bodysense features articles on a variety of massage therapy modalities with tips for healthy living, leaving readers emerge with a better understanding of bodywork, and inspired.