The language of wellbeing
Massage and wellbeing glossary
Understand the techniques, materials and words you may encounter during a massage. Find a short answer and explore further when you need to.
Want to compare your options? Explore our massage guide.
Explore the glossary ↓
63 terms shown
A glossary entry does not mean that a technique or material is included in every session. Service details are confirmed in the Massage Menu.
Definitions
Massage techniques
Acupressure and finger pressure
Acupressure refers to applying pressure to specific points; finger pressure describes pressure applied with the fingers.
Expand definition: Acupressure and finger pressure
You may also encounter the Spanish term digitopuntura. These terms do not imply inserting needles and are not exact synonyms for all Shiatsu practice. Traditional points should not automatically be equated with anatomically identified nerves.
Massage techniques
Acupuncture
A practice using fine needles inserted into the skin; it differs from manual pressure.
Informational · not offered in our current catalogue
Expand definition: Acupuncture
Included to clarify the distinction from acupressure. NDIKANDIÍ does not offer acupuncture in its massage catalogue.
Oils and aromas
Aromatherapy
Use of aromas, including those of essential oils, as part of a wellbeing experience.
Expand definition: Aromatherapy
It is not a cure. Share allergies or sensitivity to scents and products; you can express a preference for a scent-free session.
Massage techniques
Ayurvedic massage
A massage experience inspired by Ayurvedic tradition, with a distinctive rhythm and session elements.
Expand definition: Ayurvedic massage
NDIKANDIÍ offers it in Mexico City and Monterrey. Its traditional background does not imply cures, detoxification or proven changes in immunity.
Session and wellbeing
Background music
Music accompanying the session according to preferences and surroundings.
Expand definition: Background music
Listening to music during a massage does not make the session music therapy. You can ask for lower volume or silence.
Equipment and materials
Bamboo canes
Bamboo implements used as tools in certain massage techniques.
Expand definition: Bamboo canes
They relate to bamboo massage; they are not synonymous with every technique using wooden tools.
Massage techniques
Bamboo massage
A name used for massage incorporating bamboo canes as tools.
Informational · not offered in our current catalogue
Expand definition: Bamboo massage
Informational entry: not available in NDIKANDIÍ’s current catalogue. The tool does not by itself establish medical benefits.
Oils and aromas
Bergamot
A citrus fruit used as a source of fragrance in products and blends.
Expand definition: Bergamot
Mentioning this ingredient does not mean it is used in every NDIKANDIÍ session. Its scent does not guarantee a medical effect; check ingredients and tolerance.
Session and wellbeing
Body covering (draping)
The use of clothing, towels or sheets to preserve privacy and cover areas that are not being worked on.
Expand definition: Body covering (draping)
Covering is discussed with the person and does not replace consent. At NDIKANDIÍ, an undergarment must remain on throughout the session; a disposable one is used if needed. For women, if an upper-body garment is removed, the chest remains covered with a towel.
Equipment and materials
Bolster cushion
A cushion used to position or support a body area during a session.
Expand definition: Bolster cushion
Its shape and placement depend on posture and individual comfort.
Oils and aromas
Carrier oils
Base oils that act as a carrier in some massage blends and may be used to dilute essential oils.
Expand definition: Carrier oils
A vegetable oil and an essential oil are not the same. A natural product is not automatically well tolerated; its ingredients should be known.
Session and wellbeing
Cellular bioenergetics
A field of biology studying how cells obtain and transform energy to perform their functions.
Expand definition: Cellular bioenergetics
Here it is used in its scientific sense, relating to metabolism and ATP. That meaning does not show that massage balances energy fields or describe a treatment offered by NDIKANDIÍ.
Session and wellbeing
Consent during massage
Voluntary agreement to receive what has been explained and accepted, with the opportunity to ask questions, request changes or stop.
Expand definition: Consent during massage
Giving consent at the start does not remove the option to withdraw it during the session. You can state which areas you do not want worked on. This definition concerns touch and participation; it does not change booking or cancellation terms.
Session and wellbeing
Cryotherapy
A term covering different uses of cold; it does not describe one single procedure.
Expand definition: Cryotherapy
No service is offered through this entry. Suitability depends on the procedure and case; no application instructions are provided.
Equipment and materials
Cupping cups
Cups used to produce suction on the skin in cupping practice.
Informational · no separate online-booking add-on
Expand definition: Cupping cups
They may leave marks and are not suitable for everyone. This definition does not enable a cupping appointment or add-on in online booking.
Massage techniques
Decontracting massage
Manual work focused on areas of perceived tension, such as the back, neck or shoulders.
Expand definition: Decontracting massage
Pressure is agreed with the therapist; enduring pain is not the goal. Persistent symptoms or an injury need appropriate assessment.
Massage techniques
Deep Tissue
Massage using firm pressure and slow movements to work on specific areas within the person’s tolerance.
Expand definition: Deep Tissue
Depth is not measured by how much pain you can tolerate. Report sharp pain, numbness or unexpected discomfort.
Oils and aromas
Essential oils
Concentrated aromatic mixtures obtained from plants; they differ from base oils used to help the hands glide.
Expand definition: Essential oils
Use depends on the product, route of application and individual. This entry does not advise ingestion or undiluted skin application.
Equipment and materials
Face cradle and headrest
Accessories supporting the head or face according to the session position.
Expand definition: Face cradle and headrest
The support, cushion and cover are different pieces. Informal names can refer to different items, so specify which one is meant.
Session and wellbeing
Fascia
Layers of connective tissue of varying thickness, found beneath the skin and around muscles and other structures.
Expand definition: Fascia
Superficial fascia lies immediately beneath the skin; deep fascia surrounds structures such as muscles and nerves. Fascia is a tissue, while “myofascial release” names an intervention approach. Knowing the anatomy alone does not identify the cause of discomfort.
Massage techniques
Foot and hand reflexology
A practice applying pressure to specific areas of the feet or hands.
Expand definition: Foot and hand reflexology
Maps relating these areas to organs belong to its traditional framework; they do not prove that treating an area heals an organ. It is not the same as any foot massage.
Massage techniques
Foot massage
Manual work focused on the feet, adjusted to comfort and the session’s purpose.
Informational · no separate online-booking add-on
Expand definition: Foot massage
It is not necessarily reflexology, which uses a particular framework and maps. This entry does not enable a separate online-booking add-on.
Equipment and materials
Footrest
A support intended for the feet on certain equipment or in certain positions.
Expand definition: Footrest
It may be a chair component; it is not necessarily the same accessory as a cushion under the ankles.
Oils and aromas
Fragrances
Mixtures intended to scent a product or space; they are not necessarily essential oils.
Expand definition: Fragrances
A blend’s scent does not reveal all its ingredients or establish therapeutic effects. Mention if you prefer to avoid fragrances.
Massage techniques
Friction in massage
A stroke involving localised movement of tissues beneath the skin, rather than a broad gliding motion.
Expand definition: Friction in massage
To distinguish it from gliding, consider the extent of the movement: friction focuses on a specific area. The term names a stroke, not an outcome such as breaking down adhesions or healing an injury.
Massage techniques
Gliding (effleurage)
A massage stroke in which the hands move across an area of the body while maintaining contact.
Expand definition: Gliding (effleurage)
Look for the continuous movement of the hands. Kneading, by comparison, involves lifting and working the tissues with a kneading action. Effleurage names the movement: comfortable pressure is something to discuss separately.
Massage techniques
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi
Massage with broad, flowing movements that may involve the forearms.
Expand definition: Hawaiian Lomi Lomi
NDIKANDIÍ offers it in Mexico City and Monterrey. Its flowing movements distinguish it from work concentrated on one point.
Equipment and materials
Herbal compresses
A term used in massage settings for cloth bundles containing herbal preparations.
Expand definition: Herbal compresses
Contents and methods vary by practice. This informational mention does not confirm their use in NDIKANDIÍ sessions.
Massage techniques
Holistic massage
A session that brings together bodywork, rhythm and surroundings for an overall wellbeing experience.
Expand definition: Holistic massage
The term describes the approach to the experience. It does not establish a treatment for disease or require beliefs about energy.
Massage techniques
Hot stone massage
A session incorporating warmed stones as part of the bodywork.
Expand definition: Hot stone massage
Offered in Mexico City and Monterrey. Temperature and individual tolerance require attention; it should not cause burning or pain.
Massage techniques
Kneading (petrissage)
A massage stroke that combines compression and lifting of soft tissues in a kneading movement.
Expand definition: Kneading (petrissage)
The movement resembles kneading: tissue is gathered and released, rather than covered with a long gliding stroke. You can describe how it feels and ask for lighter pressure; the stroke’s name does not require a fixed intensity.
Oils and aromas
Lavender
An aromatic plant used in various scented products and essential oils.
Expand definition: Lavender
Mentioning this ingredient does not mean it is used in every NDIKANDIÍ session. Its scent does not guarantee a medical effect; check ingredients and tolerance.
Massage techniques
Manual lymphatic drainage
A technique using gentle, rhythmic movements, distinct from deep-pressure massage.
Expand definition: Manual lymphatic drainage
After surgery or for a medical condition, it must follow the guidance of the treating professional. It is not presented as a weight-loss or detoxification method.
Equipment and materials
Massage chair
Equipment allowing a session to be received while seated and supported.
Expand definition: Massage chair
Do not confuse it with Shiatsu technique or an electric massage recliner.
Equipment and materials
Massage disposables
Single-use materials, such as certain covers or protectors.
Expand definition: Massage disposables
Not all textiles are disposable. Their use does not replace equipment cleaning or justify a promise of sterility.
Massage techniques
Massage in a massage chair
A session received seated in a chair designed to allow access to the back and other areas.
Expand definition: Massage in a massage chair
In our chair-based format, shoes remain on and work covers the hands, back, neck and head. Feet are not worked on in that format. Equipment alone does not determine the technique.
Oils and aromas
Massage oils
Products that help the hands glide over the skin during a session.
Expand definition: Massage oils
They may be base oils or multi-ingredient formulas, scented or unscented. Ask about ingredients if you have sensitivities.
Equipment and materials
Massage stones
Stones prepared for use as tools in certain sessions.
Expand definition: Massage stones
The material alone does not define a therapy. Temperature and tolerance must be controlled in heated sessions.
Equipment and materials
Massage table
A padded surface designed for receiving bodywork while lying down.
Expand definition: Massage table
Its placement should leave space for the therapist to move around it.
Massage techniques
Massage therapy
The use of massage to work with the body's soft tissues through touch, pressure and movement.
Expand definition: Massage therapy
It covers different forms of massage, including Swedish massage. A technique’s name describes part of the experience; the practitioner’s training and the session’s purpose are separate questions. Massage does not replace a healthcare assessment and should not delay one for a health problem.
Massage techniques
Mayan rebozo massage
A session incorporating rocking, mobilisation and assisted stretches with a rebozo cloth.
Expand definition: Mayan rebozo massage
NDIKANDIÍ offers this service only in Mexico City. It is not described as organ repositioning or fertility treatment.
Session and wellbeing
Music therapy
The use of music interventions for therapeutic goals within a specific professional practice.
Expand definition: Music therapy
It differs from playing background music. This entry is informational and does not present music therapy as an NDIKANDIÍ service.
Massage techniques
Percussion (tapotement)
A massage stroke consisting of a sequence of brief, rhythmic contacts made with the hands.
Expand definition: Percussion (tapotement)
It is recognised by alternating contacts and pauses, rather than the continuous contact of gliding. Here, tapotement refers to a manual stroke; a massage gun is a different device.
Massage techniques
Prenatal massage
Massage adapted to pregnancy, with attention to comfort, positioning and individual circumstances.
Expand definition: Prenatal massage
Share your stage of pregnancy and your healthcare team’s guidance. No massage is universally suitable for every pregnancy.
Session and wellbeing
Pressure and comfort
Pressure describes the intensity of contact; comfort describes how the person receiving the massage experiences it.
Expand definition: Pressure and comfort
Saying “lighter, please”, “that feels right” or “I want to stop” helps communicate what you need. You can request a pressure adjustment or ask for the stroke to stop. These are communication examples, not a clinical scale or a measure of effectiveness.
Session and wellbeing
Prone position (face down)
A lying position with the front of the body facing the supporting surface.
Expand definition: Prone position (face down)
Prone means face down; supine means face up. A face cradle or headrest is an accessory you may encounter with this position on a massage table. If the position feels uncomfortable, say so to discuss an adjustment.
Equipment and materials
Rebozo cloth
A cloth that may be used to support assisted movements in certain sessions.
Expand definition: Rebozo cloth
In NDIKANDIÍ’s Mayan rebozo massage it forms part of the agreed bodywork.
Massage techniques
Relaxing massage
A gentle-to-moderate-pressure session intended for rest and a comfortable bodywork experience.
Expand definition: Relaxing massage
You can ask for adjustments during the massage. Relaxation does not require intense pressure or enduring discomfort.
Massage techniques
Scalp and facial massage
Manual work focused on the scalp and face, according to the agreed scope.
Informational · no separate online-booking add-on
Expand definition: Scalp and facial massage
It differs from craniosacral therapy or a medical cosmetic procedure. This entry does not yet offer a separate online-booking add-on.
Equipment and materials
Seed pillows
Pillows filled with seeds or other materials, used in some wellbeing settings.
Expand definition: Seed pillows
They are not necessarily herbal compresses. Composition and use instructions depend on the product; this entry does not provide heating guidance.
Session and wellbeing
Sensory environment
The light, sound, temperature and other stimuli surrounding a session.
Expand definition: Sensory environment
Your preferences matter: explain which elements feel comfortable or bothersome.
Massage techniques
Shiatsu
A manual technique using pressure, including finger pressure, which can be adapted to different positions.
Expand definition: Shiatsu
NDIKANDIÍ offers table-based Shiatsu in Mexico City and Monterrey. The name of a massage chair does not by itself determine the technique performed on it.
Session and wellbeing
Side-lying position
A lying position on either the right or left side of the body.
Expand definition: Side-lying position
It can be on the right or left side. Cushions can add support according to the person’s needs. It is a positioning option to discuss during a session; on its own, it does not establish whether massage is suitable during pregnancy.
Session and wellbeing
Silence during massage
A preference for reducing conversation while receiving a session.
Expand definition: Silence during massage
Silence is compatible with stating boundaries, requesting pressure adjustments or reporting discomfort at any time.
Session and wellbeing
Soft lighting
Lower-intensity lighting chosen to create a comfortable setting during massage.
Expand definition: Soft lighting
It must allow the therapist to work safely. Complete darkness is not needed to enjoy a session.
Massage techniques
Sports massage
Massage focused on areas an active person wishes to prioritise around their physical activity.
Expand definition: Sports massage
The session follows your stated goal and pressure tolerance. It does not guarantee performance gains or prevent injuries on its own.
Session and wellbeing
Supine position (face up)
A lying position on the back, with the face and front of the body facing upwards.
Expand definition: Supine position (face up)
It is also called the dorsal position, the opposite of lying face down. It should not be confused with supination, a movement of the forearm or foot. The name identifies body orientation; supports are adapted to the person.
Massage techniques
Swedish massage
Massage combining gliding movements, kneading and other manual techniques.
Expand definition: Swedish massage
Pressure and rhythm are adapted to the session. It should not be described as toxin cleansing or a substitute for medical care.
Massage techniques
Table-based Shiatsu
A way of receiving Shiatsu while lying on a massage table, allowing access to different body areas.
Expand definition: Table-based Shiatsu
Our table-based sessions allow work on the feet and hands, with reflexology included when agreed with the therapist.
Oils and aromas
Tea tree
A plant from which an essential oil used in various products is obtained.
Expand definition: Tea tree
Mentioning this ingredient does not mean it is used in every NDIKANDIÍ session. Its scent does not guarantee a medical effect; check ingredients and tolerance.
Session and wellbeing
Warmth during massage
The use of warm materials as part of certain sessions.
Expand definition: Warmth during massage
Tolerance is individual and temperature must be controlled. Report changes in sensation or anything that feels too hot.
Massage techniques
Wood therapy
A name used for massage techniques incorporating wooden tools.
Informational · not offered in our current catalogue
Expand definition: Wood therapy
Informational entry: not available in NDIKANDIÍ’s current catalogue. It is not presented as a guarantee of fat reduction or body reshaping.
Oils and aromas
Ylang ylang
A plant whose flowers are used to obtain a floral-scented essential oil.
Expand definition: Ylang ylang
Mentioning this ingredient does not mean it is used in every NDIKANDIÍ session. Its scent does not guarantee a medical effect; check ingredients and tolerance.
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