Many essential oils that are derived from plants, herbs, flowers, and roots have beneficial therapeutic qualities. Aromatherapy involves the "burning" of essential oils to elicit a desired effect; for example, lavender is known to induce calmness and relaxation. When combined with bodywork, aromatherapy can enrich the massage experience immensely. A few drops of essential oil can be added to massage cream or oil and applied to the skin. Professionally trained aromatherapists also blend oils to treat specific conditions. Only experienced professionals and/or those knowledgeable in the properties of aromatherapy should attempt to blend oils or utilize them in practice, as some oil combinations can be toxic, while others can burn the skin.

A gentle but firm pressure used on key points on the body to help relieve muscular tension, promote circulation of blood and stimulate the body's natural healing ability. Acupressure and acupuncture use the same points on the body, but acupressure uses the hands for putting pressure on the points whereas acupuncture uses needles.

A very gentle non-invasive technique, the craniosacral therapist monitors the rhythm of the craniosacral system to detect restrictions and imbalances and with a very light touch helps release the problem areas helping to dissipate the negative effects of stress and promote well-being. CranioSacral Therapy is a very relaxing treatment.

The foundation of good health is found in the flow and balance of energy in the body. Polarity uses massage manipulations involving gentle rocking, stretching and pressure sensitive touch based on energy flow to help balance the body both physically and energetically.

While not strictly under the auspices of massage, Reiki (pronounced "ray-key") is often practiced in conjunction with bodywork. The word Reiki comes from two Japanese words - rei, meaning higher power or universal force, and ki, meaning life energy. Loosely translated, Reiki means universal or spiritually-guided life-force energy.

Practiced for thousands of years throughout Japan, China, Tibet and other Asian nations, Reiki was "rediscovered" in the late 19th century by Dr. Mikao Usui, a Buddhist monk and educator, who used the therapy to heal the sick. Today, Reiki is used as a method of healing illness and reducing stress through light touch or, more commonly, by placing the hands near or above the body in specific positions or patterns. Through these positions, a Reiki practitioner can correct energetic imbalances in the body by removing toxic energy, improving health and restoring a person's energy levels.