THE EUROPEAN TRADITION OF MASSAGE THERAPY
based on Western principles of anatomy and physiology and soft tissue manipulation, of which Swedish massage is the classic method.

THE MODERN NORTH AMERICAN TRADITION
also based on Western anatomical and physiological principles, but incorporating a mind-body dimension to traditional concepts. These include Californian massage, Esalen massage, Neo-Reichian massage and neuromuscular massage.

POSTURAL INTEGRATION TECHNIQUES
aimed at reshaping the body structure through postural and movement re-education, such as Rolfing®, Trager® and Hellerwork®. Although sharing some commonalities with structural integration techniques, somatic education approaches such as the Feldenkrais Method® and the Alexander Technique® are not considered forms of massage therapy.

ORIENTAL TECHNIQUES
Based on the energetic principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, such as therapeutic shiatsu, reflexology (stimulation of specific areas of the body), Jin Shin Do, Tui na massage and acupressure,

NON-ORIENTAL ENERGY THERAPIES
inspired by ancient healing practices using the laying on of hands, such as therapeutic touch, reiki and polarity.