Find the massage that works for you

If you think bodywork is for your car, you're on the right track. Now think of your body as a Porsche. "Getting a regular massage is the same thing as changing the oil in the car," says Michael Hovi, educational director of the Soma Institute, a Chicago massage therapy school. "It's something that needs to be done on a regular basis."

To take the stress out of finding the right massage, we explain the different techniques to help you figure out which is best for your body. We've broken down the categories into traditional, techniques that have withstood the test of time; specialty, newer techniques used to target specific injuries or areas; and structural work, in which the body's connective tissue --not the muscles--are the problem. One of these will make your day:

Swedish massage
The most popular form of massage in the country, Swedish is often the first technique learned and is increasingly called "wellness" massage.

The rubdown: Uses various degrees of pressure and five main circular or gliding strokes that include kneading, tapping, wringing and brushing to relax the muscles and surrounding soft tissue.

What happens to my body? It should relax, energize, stimulate circulation and enhance muscle tone. It's also considered therapeutic in reducing muscle tightness. Swedish works primarily on the first layer of muscle and increases the local circulation. Expect to feel like a zombie. You'll want to go to sleep.

Good for: Stress relief, relaxation, soreness and improved circulation. Aids in digestion.

Thai
Popular among runners, Thai massage helps increase flexibility because it mixes assisted yoga stretches with subtle pressure along energy lines. An adaptation of traditional Thai massage, which is believed to have origins in Indian medicine.

The rubdown: Because you're lying fully clothed on a floor mat, rather than a table, the practitioner can apply pressure to specific parts of the body, along energy lines, in unique ways. "I might walk on you or put my elbows in different areas," said Grainne McKeown of Chicago Thai Massage. The stimulation releases blocked energy, which can cause sluggishness, aches and pains.

Expect to feel: Energized, relaxed and strong. It might be easier to walk, and stiffness in the neck, shoulders and lower back may disappear.

Good for: Lethargy, repetitive stress syndrome and arthritis. Also appeals to athletes such as distance runners because it helps flexibility and can eliminate lactic acid buildup.