What are the different types of SPA massages?

With more and more spas setting up and offering so many variations of massages, how can you tell if you are getting the most genuine rubdown? Here are some notes on the different types of massages.

Shiatsu
Shiatsu (指圧) is a form of Japanese massage that uses thumb pressure. While receiving Shiatsu, you are fully clothed while laying on a mat on the floor.

Stone massage
Heated stones were used by Egyptians, Native Americans and in Lomilomi massage. The ones used for body massage are smooth hot or cold stones, usually basalt or marble. When heated stones are used, muscles relax, allowing the massage therapist to work deeper into the muscle.

Swedish
This style utilizes long, flowing strokes. There are six basic strokes. Oil, cream, or lotion is applied on the skin to reduce friction and allow smooth strokes. Swedish massage has shown to be helpful in reducing pain, joint stiffness, and improving function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee over a period of eight weeks.

Thai
Thai massage is also known as traditional Thai massage, Thai yoga massage, Thai classical massage, Thai bodywork, passive yoga or assisted yoga. Thai massage is based on Ayurveda and yoga. The massage recipient changes into loose, comfortable clothes and lies on a mat on the floor.

Tui Na (Traditional Chinese massage)
Tui Na (推拿) focusing on pushing, stretching and kneading the muscle. Zhi Ya (指壓) is similar to Tui Na massage except it focuses more on pinching and pressing at acupressure points. They are both based on principles from Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Watsu
Watsu is the combination of hydrotherapy and Shiatsu. The work is done in body temperature water with both the therapist and the client in the water, usually a pool which is between 1-1.2m deep. The work entails much movement in the water and therapists believe that it helps to activate the energy lines derived from Shiatsu.