Asian Massage - Relax and refresh, Asian style!

Asia. The home of various practices that bring about pleasure, pain, enlightenment, power, vigor, strength, wisdom and so many others. Naturally, with a land so keen on knowing the in and outs of the human body and soul, Asia is also the heart of one of the best relaxation techniques known to man. That is, the massage.

The kinds of Asian massage available out there are as varied as the type of massage oils. Each with its own unique feature that defines itself, Asian massages are a joy to experience. Not only are Asian massages soothing and relaxing, they also provide comfort and nurturing. To enumerate all the types of Asian massages will take some time, so here are a few popular choices:

Shiatsu
Originally from Japan, this popular Asian massage makes use of the fingers and acupuncture points so ingrained in the Oriental way of healing. An alternate form of acupuncture, Shiatsu focuses on controlling and regulating the flow of life energy in the body. The technique itself redirects this energy and brings back balance to the organs to encourage healing. After a while, the slow pressure brings about relaxation and relief as blood flow is stimulated. As well as improving the flow of blood, this technique may also trigger the body's mechanism against diseases. To the more practical minded, let's just say that the technique releases endorphins, which bring about the relief of pain.

Acupressure
One of the most ancient Chinese healing arts, acupressure uses the fingers to press focal points on the body that promotes the body's self-healing. This Asian massage technique is quite handy for self-treatment of tension or stress related illnesses. Not only that is can relieve pain, acupressure is also known to lift anxiety and promote good sleep.

AMMA OR ANMA
Amma or Anma means "massage" in the Japanese language. The amma technique is made up of various presses, strokes, stretches and manipulations using one's thumb, hands, elbows, knees and even feet. Amma is based on the principles of kata, a dance like exercise that emphasizes on setting up a rhythm, pace, precision and form. Amma is fairly flexible and can be done on a variety of places since there are no oils needed and there is no need to shed clothing.

Ayuvedric Massage
In the Ayuvedric style of Asian massages, to detoxify and to rejuvenate are the key points. Originating from India, the entire body is massaged vigorously, using a good amount of warmed oil and herbs that eliminates toxins from the body. If the client permits it, the oil is even poured into the ears, between the eyebrows and specific energy points. Advocates claim a powerful effect on their senses - a blanket of calm, balance and inner peace.

Champissage
Champissage is a branch of the Ayuvedric technique that deals almost exclusively with the upper half of the body. This Asian massage promotes blood circulation in the scalp and nourishes hair roots. The technique is not only to the scalp, but also extends to massage the face, neck, ears, neck, shoulder and the upper arms. It proves to be an effective way of relieving eye strain and headaches, as well as lethargy.

Thai Massage
The Thailand branch of the Asian massages is can be called Nuad Bo Rarn. Developed and practiced in Thailand for about 2000 and something years, it is said that credits for it's conception go to a certain Shivago Komarpaj, an Indian doctor said to be the personal physician of Buddha. With impressive origins like these, it's no wonder that the Thai massage theory also deals with the stimulation of energy within the body. It is believed that the body has thousands of sen or energy lines that are stimulated externally to bring about the specific desired internal effects. This technique is best done on a firm mat, not a table and does not require the shedding of clothes.

Whew, where to start? So many Asian massages, so little time. The thing is to pick one you're most interested in and just try it out!