Massage is defined as the treatment of superficial parts of the body using methods such as rubbing, stroking, kneading, or slapping. Massages are most often performed in order to relieve muscle stiffness, spasms, or cramps, and to relieve tension and stress.

There are a wide variety of massage styles, both of Eastern and Western origin. The most popular Eastern types of massage are Shiatsu, Acupressure, and Polarity. All Eastern types of massages focus on the balance of energy in the body. The most popular Western types of massage are Sweedish, Escalen, Neuromuscular Therapy, Trager, Myofascial Release, and Connective Tissue Therapy. As opposed to Eastern types, Western massage styles are based on an understanding of the body’s anatomy rather than an understanding of the body’s energy force. Regardless of the style used, all types of massages stimulate physical and emotional healing.