The Gentlest Forms of Massage

A lot of people who are looking for a new form of pain management, or even simply 
looking for a relaxing way to spend their afternoon, get curious enough to try massage, 
but some people are sensitive to touch that is vigorous, and might require something a 
lot easier going for their first massage experience. What they may not realize, is that 
there are quite a few options for them as well, so this article is geared towards the 
gentlest form of massage. 

Reflexology

This remarkable technique was born of ancient techniques from Egypt and China. It is 
also known as zone therapy, and employs a belief that area in the hands and feet have 
corresponding links to various organs and systems in the human body. It uses a sort of 
kneading and rubbing to bring blood flow and stimulate the connections to the body’s 
corresponding organs. You can sit back and relax while you have both your hands and 
feet slowly and gently worked on during this minimal impact massage. 

Swedish Massage 

Generally speaking, when most people think about massage, this is most likely to be the 
type of massage that they are thinking about. Swedish massage is offered at most 
clubs, spa, wellness centers, and gyms. This style of massage is always easily known 
by its highly recognizable movements such as striking, kneading, rhythmic chopping, 
circular wringing, and slow long strokes. People who are more sensitive are likely to 
stick with the slower, more focused long strokes and stay away from the high energy 
chopping. 
 
Hot Stone Massage 

This extremely soft, low energy massage can be an excellent option for someone 
seeking a very relaxing, and low impact massage. Stones can vary in material, but are 
commonly basalt. This stone is produced by volcanic activity, and holds onto heat very 
well. The heat in the stones helps to loosen and soothe muscles. If you are sensitive to 
heat, there are also stone massages done with cold Basalt stones.

Shiatsu

There is no oil used in this massage traditionally. It generally calls for the wearing of 
loose clothing. Shiatsu massage is rooted in Chinese medicine, and its purpose is to 
stimulate the pressure points of the body to promote greater health and well-being. It 
primarily uses localized pressure created by the practitioner’s fingers, and held for 6 - 8 
seconds at a time over specialized pressure points in a rhythmic sequence.
