Types of Massage Music

A skilled massage therapist helps you relax the moment you walk into the office.The therapy space is clean and welcoming, perhaps the scent of an aromatherapy oil lingers in the air, and soft music soothes you. These elements signal your body to prepare for relaxation, and loud music would send a different signal. Music used for massage should be soothing and easy to listen to no matter what type of music it is.

Instrumental

Instrumental massage music can include many styles. Flute and woodwind music is popular, especially Native American, Far Eastern or Himalayan flute recordings, perhaps because of their soothing wind-like tones. Instrumental massage music often includes unusual musical instruments that have a religious or spiritual significance such as a harp, chimes, Buddhist tingsha cymbals or Tibetan prayer bowls. Playing music associated with a faith tradition may increase the relaxation effects for people who appreciate that tradition. Orchestral music can also be used for massage music if it is light.

Vocal

Most vocal massage music does not have lyrics. Trying to understand the words of a song may distract the recipient of a massage from full relaxation. However, therapists will often choose music that has repetitive, melodious vocals such as a Gregorian chant. Other types of vocals in massage music include the singing of simple words or syllables as an accompaniment to the music. Prayer-like affirmations such as "deep peace comes to you" or "may you relax and release" are sometimes woven within the melodies of music made for massage.

Purpose of Massage Music

A massage therapist may choose to play music because she enjoys listening to it or because it helps her stay focused on her work, but the most important reason most therapists opt for ambient music during massage is because they know it helps the massage recipient relax and enjoy a more complete experience. A study published by the Journal of Advanced Nursing confirms that listening to relaxing music "reduces heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure" and, to some degree, can even reduce pain. Soothing music is also credited with easing headaches, boosting immunity and lifting mild depression -- all of which are also benefits of regular massage therapy.