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There are basically two types of massage therapy:
1). Massage designed for relaxation  
2). Massage designed for pain management
Some people say there are over 100 styles of massage and others say a lot more.

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  1. ACROSAGE - This combination of massage, yoga, and acrobatics was developed by Benjamin Marantz. The client is placed in an inverted pose atop the acrosager's feet, their head hanging freely. With no pressure on the neck or spine, the client's more difficult points can be easily massaged.
  2. ACTIVE RELEASE THERAPY (ART) - A combination of examination and treatment. The ART provider uses his or her hands to evaluate the texture, tightness, and movement of muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. Combining precisely directed tension with very specific patient movements treats abnormal tissues.
  3. ACUPRESSURE - Ancient healing art that uses fingers to stimulate key points along the meridians to activate the healing response. Acupressure and Acupuncture use the same points but acupressure does not use needles. Symptoms are considered an expression of the condition of the body as a whole. (Holding a point on your foot may assist in relieving a digestive problem.) It is believed that tension in the muscles blocks the flow of energy (chi) not only in the muscles, but also in the associated internal organs.
  4. ACUPUNCTURE - Incorporates an ancient wisdom with a comprehensive system for diagnosis and treatment. This system originated many thousands of years ago in China, and the earliest written source found dates back to the 2nd century B.C. The philosophy of acupuncture centers on the body's ability for self-healing and the continuous flow of Qi (Chi) -- life's energy. Chi relates to specific organs and moves along pathways called meridians. Diagnosis includes traditional medicine along with pulse and tongue diagnosing. Each pulse relates to a specific internal organ. Needles are used to treat restricted flow of Qi. The goal of treatment is to have the individual balanced in body, mind, and spirit, which correspond to life's natural rhythms.
  5. ACU-YOGA - is a system of exercises integrating the knowledge of two holistic methods of health maintenance - acupressure and yoga. Both relax muscular tension and balance the vital life forces of the body. Yoga does this through controlling the breath while holding the body in certain postures. Acupressure does this by directly manipulating body energy through a system of points and meridians. Each Acu-Yoga posture naturally presses and stretches certain nerves, muscles and acupressure points, awakening the meridians and releasing the tension in the points so that energy (chi) can circulate freely. This energy is the source of all life, and its flow is the key to radiant health. The process balances the body and stimulates it to heal itself.
  6. AI CHI (FLOWING AQUATIC ENERGY) - Ai chi is a water exercise and relaxation program, created by Jun Konno, to help aquatic practitioners and students enjoy the water in a flowing, yet powerful progression. Ai chi, created by combining t'ai chi concepts with shiatsu and Watsu techniques, is performed standing in shoulder-depth water using a combination of deep breathing and slow, broad movements of the arms, legs and torso. The ai chi progression moves from simple breathing to upper extremity movement to movement of the trunk, and finally to lower extremity movement. Ai chi promotes relaxation, stability and coordinated breathing. It improves flexibility, mobility and strength, and it will animate the mind as well as the body.
  7. ALCHEMICAL SYNERGY - Developed by Kamala Renner, Alchemical Synergy is a process of evolving universal energy patterns and is used as a holistic counseling system that focuses on achieving transformation by utilizing the universal four forces of centripetal, centrifugal, gravity, and electromagnetics - the consciousness portion of the Big Bang theory relative to the beginning of the universe. Centripetal controls all inward movement, allowing us to go inside to observe and reconnect with our inner world that contains knowledge of all that is natural for us as an individual. Centrifugal controls all outward movement, allowing interaction of the consciousness with the surroundings and other people. Centripetal and centrifugal are duality and control all activity that depends on yin/yang, negative/positive balance for its existence. Gravity regulates the action of centripetal and centrifugal to ensure universal balance and stimulates the ability to step out of duality to observe the effect of its interaction from a neutral space. Electromagnetics is the life forcethat is a catalyst for reproduction to occur, allowing the evolution of consciousness to continue. Synergy training defines every experience in categories relative to the force from which it originates. When we are aware of the influence of the four forces, we can begin to alter structures and patterns that cause stagnation in personal growth. (Adapted from Holistic Health Directory.)
  8. ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE - The Alexander technique is an educational method for improving coordination, andfor developing awareness of unnecessary tensions in the body.  F. M. Alexander was an actor who had a problem with losing his voice. By studying his habitual movements in a mirror, he discovered ways he was using his body that created his vocal problem and was able to resolve the difficulty. He went on to create a system for enhancing balance, posture and the use of the body, which is called the Alexander Technique. Practitioners refer to themselves as teachers of the Alexander method and refer to sessions as lessons.
  9. ALLARD KINETIC SYSTEMS - Allard Professional Training combines structure, function and awareness into a system where each are seen as intertwined and not separate entities. Developed by Norman Allard, the relationship between the energetics of human potential movement and structural/therapeutic effects are explored through perceptual anatomy, neurokinetics and arthrosomatics.
  10. AMMA Therapy (ANMA) - AMMA therapy is a method of restoring the flow of life energy in the body, and is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. It combines Oriental medical principles with a Western approach to organ dysfunction. AMMA Therapy may include dietary plans, detoxification, herbs and vitamins, and therapeutic exercises.
  11. ANMA MASSAGE - general form of Chinese Qigong massage which uses 361 energy points or (tsubos). "an" means press: "mo" means rub; "anma" means massage.
  12. APPLIED KINESIOLOGY (TOUCH FOR HEALTH) - Applied Kinesiology is a technique used mainly by chiropractors to gain diagnostic information through muscle testing and to strengthen muscles to aid in structural correction. Muscles are related to specific organs or systems through the acupuncture meridian network. By observing the patient's posture, walk, and general body movements as well as specific muscle testing, the practitioner determines the cause of certain health problems. Treatment may include nutritional counseling, manipulation, acupressure, and exercise.
  13. APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY - A muscle monitoring technique, applied physiology allows the body to express what is out of balance and provides information to restore that balance. Muscles are put through a normal range of motion, monitored to determine where the stresses lie. The centerpiece of the technique is using acupoints to ask "questions" about specific physiological and anatomical stresses. The goal of treatment is to let go of the stress within the body by integrating the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual components of an individual.
  14. AQUATIC MASSAGE THERAPY - A therapy delivered in a warm pool combining Watsu, a technique using Shiatsu stretches, and Jahara technique, a bio-mechanically correct series of joint mobilizations. The combination of warm water, low gravity, and slow movements facilitate continuous range of motion and traction of the joints.
  15. AROMATHERAPY - The use of essential oils for curative and rejuvenating effects. Dating back to ancient Egypt, India, and the Far East, this simple therapy has been used for centuries to reduce stress and tension, refresh and invigorate the body, soothe emotions, and clear the mind. After an initial discussion with the client, specific essential oils are used in conjunction with other appropriate techniques, such as massage, acupressure, or reflexology. Used in oils, the essential oil is absorbed through the skin and into the body to affect physiological change. When inhaled the aroma directly affects the limbic area of the brain that is related to emotions and memories.
  16. ART THERAPY - Using the media of the arts (sculpture, painting, collage, etc.) to provide release of symbolic expression, art therapy
    allows the individual an opportunity to confront inner perceptions of the self.
  17. ASHIATSU (ASHI MEANS FOOT AND ATSU MEANS PRESSURE) - Ancient form of bodywork. An adaptation of an ancient form of barefoot massage using deep compression effleurage gliding over the body. Gravitational force is combined with centrifugal and centripetal movements to bring about a structural change in chronic soft tissue damage. Bars are used over the head for balance and lubricant is
    applied.
  18. ASTON PATTERNING - Aston-Patterning aims to increase the body’s grace, resiliency and ease of movement by releasing layers of tension throughout the body. It uses movement education, bodywork, environmental design and fitness training.
  19. ASYMMETRIC BODY BALANCING - This is a combination of Paul St. John's Neuromuscular Therapy and more traditional Hatha yoga to help clients diminish and/or alleviate pain or discomfort and find homeostasis and equilibrium in their daily lives.
  20. ATTUNEMENT - Attunement is a non-touch (or light touch) approach to healing, employing spiritual techniques (prayer and meditation) to restore one's naturally vibrant energetic and physical well-being. Attunement balances the flow of energy through the endocrine glands, organs, bones and other tissues of thebody - establishing alignment between the body, mind and emotions and harmonizing these elements with the "spirit," described as the radiant source of life and healing. Sharing attunement with clients invites them to share a sacred energetic or vibrational space characterized by stillness and peace, where healing at all levels can occur. This life-giving process is the doorway through which an individual may enhance or recover health of body, mind and spirit.
  21. AYURVEDIC MASSAGE - Ayurvedic is a system of health and medicine used in India. Ayurveda means "life knowledge" or "right living.” The basic theory is that there are there basic body types or tridoshas. There are three different types of massage for each tridosha. They have a system similar to meridians called Marmas. There are about 100 of these points and are said to be the source of the vital life force. There is one type of massage that is part of detoxification system from India called Pancha Karma, in which the body is cleansed inside and out to remove toxins. Most use Sesame oil which has a heating and stimulating quality.
  22. BACH FLOWER REMEDIES - Works on one's emotions. With the emotional aspect of illness in mind, Dr. Bach went on to develop 38 flower remedies plus the combination remedy known as Rescue Remedy. The flower remedies are diluted and combined with brandy.
  23. BALINESE MASSAGE - Vigorous, deep massage with techniques similar to acupressure routines combined with the use of therapeutic oils to relieve all sorts of complaints. Special strumming and knuckle techniques are taught as well as skin rolling, wringing, and thumb crossing.
  24. BARBARA BRENNAN HEALING SCIENCE - Barbara Brennan's Healing Science program focuses on clearing blocked energy and balancing the body's energy field through hands-on work and deep healing techniques. Emphasis is placed on enabling the therapist to discover their own healing process and thus personalize their healing approach. Channeling, use of spiritual guidance, healing with color and sound, and work with auras are among the techniques used. Through the unblocking and balancing of energy fields, the client has access to healing on all levels of functioning - emotional, physical, spiritual and mental.
  25. BAREFOOT SHIATSU - Using hands, elbows, knees, and feet to massage.
  26. BART (BONDING AND RELAXATION TECHNIQUES) - Based on the parent education program of infant massage by Virnala McClure, BART is a program of stroking for individuals with, or at risk for, developmental delays. Designed to empower parents and instill parental confidence, as well as nourish the bond between parent and child, BART aids in relaxation, normalization of muscle tone, respiratory and
    gastro-intestinal functioning, sensory integration and behavioral organization.
  27. BELAVI' FACIAL MASSAGE - A series of massage techniques using acupressure points, lymphatic drainage strokes and facial massage strokes, Belavi' Facial Massage is designed to firm sagging skin, stimulate blood and oxygen, release toxins and soften lines. The treatment also consists of cleansing, exfoliating, hot towel wraps and a honeylift massage treatment.
  28. BERRYWORK - The late Lauren Berry PT created this bodywork, it is a contemporary of Trager, Feldenkrais and Rolf who devised a system of "correctives" that involve stretches and that work the fascia, cartilage and joints. His work is passed on through the teaching of his advanced students.
  29. BINDEGEWEBSMASSAGE (CONNECTIVE TISSUE MASSAGE) - Developed in Germany by Elisabeth Dicke in the 1930’s is massage or reflexive therapy of the connective tissue. The practitioner strokes the layers just below the skin to impact the fascia layer, which has many sensory nerve endings. This sets up a reflex from the skin to the organs -- not unlike acupuncture. No lotions are used, and the series of strokes are called hooking, smoothing, etc. The client may experience a scratching, or cutting, sensation as if sharp lines were etched on the skin, but pain is not experienced. Most treatments are given from a seated position that usually begins at the sacrum (triangular bone at bottom of spine) to induce relaxation by activating the parasympathetic portion of the autonomic nervous system.
  30. BINDI - This bodywork combines marine algae exfoliation, herbal treatment, and light massage.
  31. BIOENERGETICS - Alexander Lowen, M.D., an outgrowth of his work created Bioenergetics with Wilhelm Reich, M.D. Bioenergetics is a way of understanding personality in terms of the body and its energetic processes. Bioenergetics therapy works with the mind and the body to release chronic stresses and chronic muscular tensions. Dr. Lowen has written 14 books. Bioenergetic therapists use this approach as a way of to understand the personality of the client in terms of the body and its energetic processes. Often they will discuss how tension in the body may directly relate to a person's emotional history and childhood relationships.
  32. BIOENERGY - Developed and taught by Polish healer Mietek Wirkus, bioenergy is a form of energy healing. The therapist uses a combination of non-invasive, light physical touch with manipulation and repatterning of the higher energy bodies and chakras using only the hands. The objectives are release of physical symptoms associated with disease and stimulation of the relaxation response to relieve stress and tension.
  33. BIOFEEDBACK - Biofeedback utilizes a system of sensitive instruments that relay information about the physical condition of the body. Used as a primary therapy, or in conjunction with other methods, biofeedback provides deep relaxation and stress management skills to prevent stress-related disorders and illness. These skills, including deep breathing and guided imagery, offer self-regulation and control over mental, emotional and physical processes. The principles of biofeedback can be traced back to the 18th century.
  34. BIO-MAGNETIC TOUCH HEALING - Bio-magnetic touch healing is a light touch complementary healing method that employs the index and middle fingers of each hand to lightly touch specific points on the body. The combination of correct points, light and butterfly-like touch activates the body's own inherent healing ability and is subtly motivated.
  35. BIOSYNC - Nerve impingement in cross-linked connective tissue is a major cause of chronic and sports-associated pain. Through trauma (injury), compression, tension, free-radical damage, pollution and more, cross-linking of connective tissue is formed. These threads of connective tissue adhere to adjacent strands, thereby decreasing range of motion, reducing joint space, impinging nerves and generally shortening the body. The BioSync method releases collagen cross-linking by unwinding these locked and hardened strands, thereby restoring the body's length, flexibility and function, and allowing regeneration and revitalization of the whole system. The BioSync method, developed by Mark Lamm, NMT, is a sophisticated system of neuromuscular rehabilitation and re-education, and has been successful with a wide range of muscular and trauma-related challenges. It is complementary with existing medical and rehabilitative procedures.
  36. BODY ALIGNMENT - Developed by Jeff Levin, this technique is a means of accessing the body to identify where an imbalance or blockage exists, find its underlying cause and energetically release it. Energy blockages are released through balancing vibrational energy points associated with the organs, glands and systems of the body.
  37. BODY LOGIC - Body Logic is a system of bodywork and body understanding developed by Yamuna Zake. It uses the principle of "space making" whereby space is created around joints and locked areas to allow the body to unfold and finds its own balance, enhancing
    freedom of movement, posture, strength and energy.
  38. BODY IMAGING ENHANCEMENT - Based on a balance between body, mind and feeling, body imaging enhancement proposes that anatomical structural relationships of the body need to be realigned and stabilized from a central line of the body. This line posturally positions the body relationally to the force of gravity. As a result of the correction, the client will experience energy release and perceptible changes in body shape, flexibility and movement. Working with the neuromuscular and myofascial systems, the therapist uses manual manipulations to stretch and release muscle tissue and fascia to create freedom and flexibility of movement. It was developed by Dr. Mark and Denise Hendler.
  39. BODY ROLLING - Practiced on a 6-10 inch ball, and following specific routines that imitate the logic of the neuromuscular system, body rolling is a self-care practice that helps maintain the health of the neuromuscular and skeletal systems, as well as assists controlling and understanding the internal sensory experience.
  40. BODY-MIND CENTERING - Body-mind centering is a movement re-education approach that explores how the body's systems contribute to movement and self-awareness. The approach also emphasizes movement patterns that develop during infancy and childhood. Body-mind centering incorporates guided movement, exercise, imagery and hands-on work. The approach can be used with infants, children and adults to resolve movement problems and facilitate the "body-mind dialogue."
  41. BODY-ORIENTED PSYCHOTHERAPY - Body-oriented psychotherapy seeks to enhance the psychotherapeutic process by incorporating a
    range of massage, bodywork and movement techniques. Acknowledging the mind-body link, practitioners may use light touch, soft- or deep-tissue manipulation, breathing techniques, movement, exercise or body-awareness techniques, to help address emotional issues. Proper training is critical in this work.
  42. BODYTALK™ - Practitioners use a system of muscle testing to coordinate and balance the energetic communication of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components of the body. Based on the answers given by the body through the muscle testing, the practitioner can focus in on specific balances.
  43. BOWEN TECHNIQUE - Thomas Bowen developed his technique in Australia. It combines energy work with gentle soft tissue manipulation.
    1. Skin slack is drawn back with the fingers and thumbs to the edge of a muscle, tendon or ligament at a particular point on the body until the skin is taut “Eyeball pressure” 2. Then held at that still-point to draw the body's awareness and energy. 3. The fingers and thumbs are then moved back over the muscle, tendon or ligament, creating vibrations and a subtle energy release that ripples outwards to encompass the whole body. (The basic Bowen "move" is precise and light. The practitioner targets a specific spot, which may be a muscle, tendon, or nerve shaft. With the fingers or thumbs, the skin slack is gently pushed away. After a brief pause, the muscle is challenged and moved in the opposite direction.)
  44. BRAIN GYM - Created by Paul and Gail Dennison, Brain Gym (or Educational Kinesiology and Edu-K) is a sensorimotor program based on research by educational therapists, developmental optometrists and other specialists in the fields of movement, education and child development. Brain Gym consists of 26 targeted activities similar to those performed naturally by young children as part of the process of brain development. Brain Gym prepares learners with the physical skills they need to read, write, concentrate, organize and otherwise function effectively in the classroom or the adult workplace.
  45. BREAST MASSAGE - This technique entails specific kneading, rubbing and/or squeezing strokes applied to the soft tissue of the breast to increase lymph and blood flow. As poor circulation to this area can produce uncomfortable symptoms, and breast scarring caused by surgery and/or trauma can cause painful syndromes and obstruct blood and lymph flow, breast wellness becomes increasingly important. The practice of breast massage should be in conjunction with (and not a substitute for) regular self-breast exams. If a lump is found in the breast, the area should not be massaged until a physician is consulted.
  46. BREATH THERAPY - The use of respiratory exercises to open lung passages, oxygenate the blood and cleanse the body by eliminating gaseous toxins. The client is encouraged to breathe deeply while the therapist works the appropriate muscles. Breath therapy can ease anxieties and reduce stress.
  47. BREEMA - Breema takes its name from the Kurdish mountain village of Breemava where it originated and was passed down from generation to generation. It is a comprehensive system of bodywork, done on the floor, with a variety of techniques ranging from simple holding points on the body to techniques requiring flexibility and dexterity. There are nine Breema principles; Body Comfortable, Full Participation, No Extra, No Force, Non-Judgment, Mutual Support, Single Moment-Single Activity, Gentleness & Firmness, No Hurry-No Pause.
  48. BUDZEK MEDICAL MASSAGE THERAPY - Developed by Jeffrey Budzeky, RN, Budzek Medical Massage Therapy is designed to relieve acute and chronic pain resulting from muscle, nerve and joint disorders. This multi-modality therapy is based on the specific sequence of 12 different bodywork techniques and addresses eight different aspects which affect the body simultaneously.
  49. CANADIAN DEEP MUSCLE MASSAGE - This work was created by Will Green, founder of the International Massage Association (IMA Group) and owner of Georgetown Bodyworks in Washington, DC. It is derived from a system of cross-fibre massage that began in northern Canada in the 1940’s. Will added insights gained from the works of Therese Pfrimmer, Joseph Pilates, Ida Rolf, Dr. Samuel West, and Debra Smith. This technique begins gently and progresses deeply as the outer muscle fibers relax, allowing the second and third layer of muscle to be addressed.
  50. CATHIODERMIE - Rejuvenating treatment for the skin that provides deep cleansing and oxygenation of outer tissue layers, removing impurities and stimulating regeneration. The treatment involves the use of galvanic and high-frequency currents from an electric machine to provide electric stimulation in a low-voltage dose.
  51. CHAIR MASSAGE (ON-SITE, SEATED MASSAGE OR CORPORATE MASSAGE) - This refers to a brief bodywork session, usually a shiatsu-based routine, done in a special chair in which the client sits facing toward the cushions, exposing the scalp, shoulders, neck, back and hips. Sessions may last between five and thirty minutes. Originally pioneered as "on-site massage", a modality for the workplace, it has expanded into many other environments. Chair massage is now offered in storefronts, health food stores, airports, airplanes, health fairs, grand openings, sporting events, and other locations. It has therefore come to be called "chair massage" or "seated massage" instead of
    "on-site." Because of the relatively low cost of a brief session, it is more affordable than the usual full-body massage. Because it is done fully clothed, it attracts some clients who would be too uncomfortable for table massage. Because it is done in locations where the client is already present, it is more convenient than table massage. For all these reasons, the practice of chair massage has grown so fast that many of the massage table companies report they are selling more on-site chairs than massage tables.
  52. CHAMPISSAGE - Champissage is the modern Indian name for the Ayurvedic method of head massage, stimulating the circulation to the scalp and nourishing the hair roots. Originally, the technique only included the head. Today, however, this modality usually includes massage of the shoulders, upper arms and neck, and face and ears. Along with increased blood circulation, it also stimulates the movement of lymph, thus having a cleansing effect, as well as proving to be an invaluable technique for relief of eye strain, headaches, insomnia, lack of concentration and lethargy. Typically Ayurvedic oils are massaged into the scalp, however, this procedure can also be done without any oils or creams.
  53. CHI NEI TSANG - In Chinese "chi" means energy and "nei tsang" means internal organs. Chi Nei Tsang was originally developed by Chinese Taoist monks to strengthen their bodies to carry the energy required to perform their spiritual practices. Chi Nei Tsang practitioners work mainly on the abdomen with a deep, soft and gentle touch to train internal organs to work more efficiently and to improve energy flow in the body.
  54. CHINESE PEDIATRIC MASSAGE - Form of Tui na massage adapted to the special needs of children from birth to 12 years of age.
  55. CHRISTOPHER METHOD - The Christopher Method Sound-Wave Energy Therapy was introduced in 1995 and is a non-touch therapy that works on the multiple energy fields of the body to reinforce and release energy, thereby contributing to balance and well-being on the emotional, psychological and physiological levels. It gradually realigns all levels of energy, which run through the body. Tiny sound-wave vibrations are passed through the practitioner's aura to the recipient's energy field where they resonate through each of the multiple fields of the body to clear blocked energy, restore and reinforce natural polarity, and align and reinforce proper energy flow.
  56. CIRCULATORY MASSAGE - Compression techniques from the heart to the extremities to help the circulatory system.
  57. COLON HYDROTHERAPY (COLONICS OR HIGH COLONICS OR COLONIC IRRIGATION) - A cleansing procedure for the colon, using purified water at controlled temperature and controlled pressure, providing a gentle, deep cleansing of the colon. Practitioners often use massage, reflexology or visceral manipulation skills during a session. Of the 50 states, only Florida licenses colon hydrotherapy.
  58. COLORPUNCTURE - A system of holistic acu-light therapy developed by Peter Mandel in which different frequencies of visible light are applied onto the meridians where needles are typically placed during acupuncture. By using differing colors, energy can be manipulated, either to stimulate or sedate. Gentle, relaxing and non-invasive, colorpuncture is sometimes used as an alternative to acupuncture for children and adults uncomfortable with the use of needles.
  59. COLOR THERAPY - Color therapy is a form of energy work based on the theory that light deprivation leads to dysfunction in the body. Since each color has its own frequency and vibration, specific colors are used to treat designated parts of the body. The body, in turn, responds to the vibrational pattern of the color and corrects the dysfunction.
  60. COMPRESSIVE DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE - a myofascial release technique using the feet in a "walk around" the body with gentle slow deep compressions and acupressure to release pain, restrictions and tight muscles. The authors describe CDT as “grounded in Western science” and after three years of research have found it to be “ideal for deep-tissue massage, trigger-point therapy, and as a warm-up for sports and Swedish massage.”
  61. CONSCIOUS BODYWORK - This form of neuromuscular reprogramming and therapy combines massage techniques with muscle testing in order to help people learn how to use their muscles with greater strength and less effort. Conscious bodywork is used to treat persistent joint and muscle pain and to treat restriction of movement caused by injury.
  62. CONSCIOUS MASSAGE - The client tells the therapist what to do the whole time.
  63. CONTINUUM - Developed by Emile Conrad based on her background in movement and dance. Continuum has been successful in working with paralysis and spinal cord injuries. Her system takes into account that the body is 80% water and has emerged from the undulating, watery environment of the embryo. From this she developed a method of movement based on the wave-like movement of the water flowing through our bodies. The method focuses on intrinsic felt movement, not imposed patterned movement. Using breath, movement, sound and meditation,  the participant is able to get in touch with their own cranial wave.
  64. CORE BODYWORK - Evolved out of Rolfing. It is a multiphase educational process developed by George P. Kousaleos, who was a student of Bill Williams, who developed Soma. It starts with the outer layers of the myofacial tissue then concentrates on progressively deeper layers of connective tissue and muscles.
  65. C.O.R.E MYOFASCIAL INTEGRATION - CORE Myofascial Integration is a myofascial therapy that works to achieve flexibility, efficient movement, and initiates body awareness and structural balance. This is done primarily through a technique called "myofascial spreading" in which sections of superficial fascia are carefully "spread apart" with either palms, fingers, knuckles or the back of the fist. This creates a heating effect (thixotrophy) on the superficial layers of tissue, which allows the therapist to gradually effect deeper tissues.
  66. CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY (CRANIAL-SACRAL) - A technique for finding and correcting cerebral and spinal imbalances or blockages that may cause sensory, motor or intellectual dysfunction. Practitioners work with the subtle articulations of skull sutures, and the flow of cerebro-spinal fluid.
  67. CRYOTHERAPY - Ice therapy; involves the application of ice to the body with ice packs, ice blocks, or commercial gel packs, as well as immersion in ice water.
  68. CRYSTLEDYNE THERAPY - Utilizing self-activated crystal stimulator, which creates an electrical stimulus when two crystals inside are forced together, this therapy stimulates acupuncture, acupressure and reflexology points on the body, releasing endorphins from the brain to help block pain receptors in afflicted areas and open circuits of the body.
  69. DANCE/MOVEMENT THERAPIES - Dance/movement therapies focus on personal expression to enhance emotional and psychological healing. Using expressive movement as a tool, this modality lends itself to treatment of the physically disabled, as well as clients with histories of abuse and addiction.
  70. DAYANA THERAPY - A specialization for massage therapists. It combines the ideas and techniques of Esalenmassage, myofascial release, Lomi Lomi , Qi Gong, and energy work, to produce a blend that encourages massage therapists to get the most out of the therapeutic benefits of a whole-body approach.
  71. DEEP COMPRESSION MASSAGE - A rhythmic pumping action which helps to flush built-up metabolic wastes.

  72. DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE - Slow strokes and deep pressure are used to release deeply-held patterns of tension in the body. Designed to reach the deep portions of thick muscles, specifically the individual muscle fibers. Using deep muscle compression and friction along the grain of the muscle, its purpose is to unstick the fibers of the muscles and release both toxins and deeply held patterns of tension.
  73. DEEP TISSUE SCULPTING - This slow deep-tissue technique helps to gently re-align postural and movement patterns and re-establish independent action of muscles that are congested by chronic tension.
  74. DEGRIEFING - Degriefing is the process of recognizing the mental and physical pain that accompanies grief and treating it with a combination of somatic therapies and psychotherapeutic tools. Degriefing can be used to unlock and remove grief from an individual's body, and thereby heal not only physical symptoms, but mental and emotional wounds as well. It combines effective verbal counseling therapies with individualized physical care. The techniques used in the degriefing process are intended to ease a person's emotional distress, mental anguish and physical discomforts. The goal of degriefing is to unlock blockages that have developed in the body and shift them to a more harmonious state.
  75. DENTAL SPA - A legitimate dental practice that incorporates various spa treatments, including foot massage, reflexology, manicures and pedicures to help reduce patient stress and anxiety during dental procedures.
  76. DO-IN - A form of Asian energy work. Taoist system of stretching, bodily postures, movements similar to hatha yoga. Introduced to US by Michio Kushi. Chinese Taoist monks first noticed that it was instinctive for a person to touch or hold and injured or painful body part.  Nutrition is absorbed from the air and surrounding energy.
  77. DOULA - is a labor assistant who works one-on-one to help the pregnant woman to avoid unnecessary interventions or Cesarean birth through education, knowledge of alternatives, and by facilitating a smooth, unimpeded labor. The doula acts as an advocate for the birthing woman when interacting with other health professionals on the birth team. She ensures that the mother and her family understand the benefits, risks and alternatives for all tests and procedures. The goal is to achieve an unmedicated, nontechnical, woman-centered childbirth as long as it is safe for the mother and baby.
  78. DYNAMIC SPINAL THERAPY - Dynamic spinal therapy was developed by Rolf Ott in Rapperswil, Switzerland, in the 1980s. The technique works with the body's posture and energetic (acupuncture) system and consists of three parts: Ear reflexology test - This test comes from France and Germany and is part of the ear acupuncture. The ear is used to get information about the body's energetic state. A therapy stylus is simply pressed along specific lines. Some areas are more sensitive than others and give the therapist information. Acupuncture meridian harmonization balances the energetic system. The focus is on chi flow to stimulate the personal healing process. With the therapy stylus, certain meridians are traced on the skin surface. The Swiss therapeutic cushion - The pelvis is checked while being rotated and specific stretches are applied. Afterward, the client lies face down upon the Swiss therapeutic cushion like an unconscious person floating in water. This position offers complete relaxation. The body is gently rocked in several different ways. The gentle rhythmic motion causes relaxation to occur quickly and deeply and induces trust. The just-stretched muscles get reprogrammed and the rocking moves the joint helping to build them. Application - Joint problems (hip, knee, shoulder, etc.), migraines, arthritis, foot conditions (halux valgus), lumbago, herniated disks, spinal nerve irritations (problems in inner organs), scoliosis, sciatica, psychological problems, stress and many more. A treatment usually takes between 30-40 minutes.
  79. EARTH ENERGY HEALING - Similar to reiki as it is the channeling of energy and entails "laying of the hands."
  80. EDU-K™ (Educational Kinesiology) - Also known as Brain Gym, uses movement to accelerate learning and enhance performance. They are done as sets of exercises that help coordinate and integrate the two hemispheres of the brain, and can be done on their own or integrated with other therapies.
  81. EMBODIMENT TRAINING - The work of Will and Lyn Johnson. Will, a rolfer and practicing budhist, uses meditation, breath, diet to develop
    awareness of the body and mind.
  82. EMF BALANCING TECHNIQUE - In an hour-long session, clients experience their own electromagnetic field and the patterns within it. The practitioner carries out a series of graceful, t'ai chi-like movements, while the client lies on a massage table. During some parts of the session, the practitioner will gently place their handson the body to facilitate the flow of energy.
  83. ENDERMOLOGIE - Performed by a specialist, a form of massage that assists in decreasing cellulite and increasing tone and definition. Endermologie utilizes a computerized machine that massages tissues under suction to improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage, thus speeding the healing process. Use of the machine allows the therapist to cover a larger area more quickly and with less effort. Endermologie is also used as an effective method to treat cellulite, stretching tight tissue bands and stimulating circulation to flush out toxins.
  84. ENERGY FLOW BALANCING - This gentle treatment assists the client in balancing their energy flow. The therapist holds a space for the client to make whatever shifts or changes toward balance they deem necessary. Emphasis is given to the chakras and the joints, leaving the client feeling at peace and at home with themselves, with less pain, increased mobility, and greater range of motion.
  85. ENERGY HEALING - is a somewhat broad term for any form of healing that smooths out, manipulates, restores, or balances the flow of energy in the body. It may include subtle energy healing, the laying on of hands, polarity therapy, Reiki, and others. Energy workers generally work one-on-one with clients to help them and the emphasis is often placed on solving emotional or spiritual problems rather than treating a specific physical problem. Many combine two or more healing modalities in their practices, including craniosacral therapy,
    flower essences, spiritual counseling, acupressure, and so on.
  86. EQUINE SPORTS MASSAGE - Massage or other bodywork can adapt to horses for the purpose of enhancing performance and preventing injuries. This field has recently been developed and shows signs of gaining rapidly in popularity, as breeders are interested in any techniques that can give them a competitive edge.
  87. ESALEN MASSAGE - Esalen is a variant of Swedish massage pioneered at Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California. Esalen is the place where many therapies were tested or launched in the 60’s and 70’s, including Gestalt therapy and Rolfing. The unique brand of massage practiced there typically involves total nudity and long flowing stokes. Esalen is known for its original, honest, nurturing and probing atmosphere. Esalen massage tends to be nurturing, trance-like and meditative, allowing the greatest possible unfoldment to take place in the client.
  88. ESOTERIC HEALING - This is a healing through the energy field that flows through and around us and chakras, or centers of energy. Each of the seven major centers vitalizes its related endocrine gland(s). It is possible to map and measure this field and also to assist in the restoration of good health through working to rebalance the energy field. Therapists have learned to sensitize their hands and inner perception to examine the energy field in detail to find alterations in the flow of energy. The therapist does not touch the client, but works variable distances from the body. The client remains fully clothed.
  89. ESTHETICIAN - Someone highly trained in the care and healthy management of the skin. In a spa setting, and esthetician provides various skin treatments primarily on the face, neck and back.
  90. EUCAPNIC BREATH RETRAINING - A technique of guided breathing exercises and training used by somatic therapists in combination with musculoskeletal therapy to release and normalize the function of the thorax, diaphragm and other muscles of breathing, and to enhance health.
  91. EUTONY - Derived from "eu," meaning good, and "tonus" meaning tone, tension. Eutony was developed by Gerda Alexander of Germany (1908-1984) during her work in Denmark. It is based on the theory that there is a constant interaction between muscular tone and psychic activity. Acting upon muscle tone can affect the whole being and regulate the breathing, circulation, etc. The client learns how to adjust his own tonus through the observation of his sensations in various situations. He will explore the body's perceptions - from the skin to the bones - in movement, in relaxation, during activity and at rest. Professional training is an individual process lasting four years, the last year being devoted to practicum and exams.
  92. EXERSSAGE - StarFace Exerssage is a facial yoga, slow motion movement and self massage technique integrated with breathing to release jaw tension and other tensions from neuromuscular parts of the face, head and neck. It is comprised of 24 cranial facial yoga postures and a series of rhythmic contouring and acupressure pulsing massage movements. Connections are made to the vital organs with sound and intention. It facilitates the release of jaw tension, which is thought to be the source of counteracting aging.