Massages to go for according to your mood
Hot stone for happiness? Shiatsu therapy for stress? Put on your paper pants and get horizontal
Text: Tiff H
We at The Soothe are fans of a massage. Head, back, legs, shoulders... you name it, you can knead, squeeze, stroke and pummel all you like, thank you. Not just the chance to lay down for an hour in a low-lit room, massages are our go-to when we’re experiencing everything from muscle aches to mood swings.
Indeed, we’re increasingly turning to the spa industry when it comes to treating inner turmoil as well. Many studies have also shown that massage spa therapy can decrease feelings of stress, with massage significantly associated with alleviating depressive symptoms. Even beyond the treatment of physical wellbeing issues and wobbly emotions, massage therapy can help with issues such as bloating and better sleep.
We’ve rounded up our top treatments in Singapore so you can tailor your massage according to your mood.
Best for: Relaxing | Hot Stone Massage
A form of alternative medicine massage therapy, a hot stone massage involves the placement of heated stones on key points on your body. The heat of the stones promotes muscle relaxation, encourages blood flow and can be used to help treat chronic pain. You can get a Hot Stone Massage at Pürovel, Amore or Knead.
Best for: Relieving anxiety | Shiatsu massage
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage therapy that involves activating pressure points to encourage the flow of qi (energy) through the body. The therapy is designed to boost the body’s natural ability to heal and balance itself in order to improve your physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing (therefore, it’s an excellent restorative option for the reduction of stress and anxiety). Enjoy a Shiatsu massage at Healing Touch Spa, Ikeda Spa and Estheva.
Best for: A good sleep | Dry head massage
The dry head massage is a head massage technique that was developed and refined by Japan's top health care professionals from diverse fields including neuroscience, acupuncture, psychology. The release of tension in muscles around your head and eye areas promotes relaxation and encourages deeper and more restful sleep. Dry head massage take place at Moomin and Knead.
Best for: State change | Aromatherapy massage
Aromatherapy has been known to have a positive impact on physical, emotional and spiritual states. Combined with other tactile massage techniques, aromatherapy massage is a great way to shape your mental and physical state, depending on your needs. We love the aromatherapy massage at Ikeda Spa, Spa Club and Yunomori Onsen & Spa.
Best for: Bloating | Chi Nei Tsang massage
Opt for a Chi Nei Tsang massage if you’re feeling abdominal discomfort as this is a specialised form of deep abdominal detox massage from the Taoist tradition. Treatments are based on the concept that unresolved emotional issues are stored in the digestive system causing cell-tissue knots and tension in the abdominal area. Try a Chi Nei Tsang massage at Ame de Lumiere and Healing Touch Spa.
