It's no secret that receiving a massage can help manage stress, relieve depression and help boost your immune system. And, according to the American Massage Therapy Association's thirteenth annual consumer survey, just as many Americans (32%) are getting massages for medical and health reasons, as are using massage for relaxation and stress reduction (yep, 32%).

So, whether your doctor recommends massage or you just want to reduce your stress, there are a plethora of massage therapies available in Maplewood and South Orange.

Diane Rose of Natural Balance on Maplewood Avenue offers an eclectic blend of massage. She offers traditional services such as reflexology, shiatsu, deep tissue massage, and cranial sacral massage. What is not so typical is Rose's intuitive ability to read a client's energy. "I am not a psychic. I read the energy of an individual, especially imbalances and blockages," said Rose. "When I enter my treatment room with a client, I never know what I will do. I may do a traditional massage or I could be communicating about their diets, health, people who have passed. I never limit myself with a client."

Depending on the client's desires and the massage method that Rose's intuition tells her to use, the client may remain fully clothed or unclothed and covered. Additionally, Rose may choose to use a heat lamp that is placed directly above the client's body in order to help in the healing process. "It aids me in breaking down acid in the system," said Rose.

Rose practices in Maplewood on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturdays and often has a 6 to 8 week time to secure an appointment. To make an appointment with Rose, you may contact her at 973-762-2577.

Anna Winkler of Shakti Yoga & Healing Arts has been offering Thai massage since 2001. What exactly is Thai Massage? It is "an ancient and sacred system of healing with roots in yoga, ayurvedic medicine and Buddhist spiritual practice," said Winkler. The session is done fully clothed on a mat. Winkler uses rhythmic compression, gentle rocking, acupressure on sen lines (energy pathways) and assisted yoga stretching with her client. "It creates a powerful release of stress and tension, an increase in vitality and well being, and stimulates the flow of healing energies within the body," said Winkler. Since Winkler may use her own body to move the client into poses, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing.

Clients are often able to schedule an appointment within a week or two. In order to make an appointment, call Winkler at 973-727-9910 or anna@shaktinj.com.

Sue Rexford has had a private practice at Bodhi Tree located on South Orange Avenue in South Orange since this past September. Rexford has been a massage therapist since 1988 after being trained in medical massage, shiatsu, sports massage therapy, pre- and postnatal massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial technique and deep tissue massage. Rexford also sees many clients who are dealing with various health issues, such as fibromyalgia, sprains, sports related injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic low back pain and sciatica.

Many times Rexford will infuse her massage with Reiki, a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation. "I believe that stress relief helps to promote overall health, so my massage, though deep and specific, also leaves my clients relaxed," said Rexford. Most clients find Rexford's heated table a huge aid in their relaxation.

Rexford tries to secure appointments as soon as possible but Saturday appointments do fill up quickly. You can reach Rexford at 631-235-2602.

For more information on how to find a massage therapist, visit the American Massage Therapy Association website.