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 ↓
Illustration of people learning together about massage

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.

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.

Explore the technique: Ayurvedic massage →

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.

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

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.

Explore the technique: Decontracting massage →

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.

Explore the technique: Deep Tissue →

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.

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

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.

Explore the technique: Hawaiian Lomi Lomi →

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.

Explore the technique: Holistic massage →

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.

Explore the technique: Hot stone massage →

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.

Explore the technique: Manual lymphatic drainage →

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

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.

Explore the technique: Mayan rebozo massage →

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

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.

Explore the technique: Prenatal massage →

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.

Explore the technique: Relaxing massage →

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.

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.

Explore the technique: Sports massage →

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.

Explore the technique: Swedish massage →

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.

Read more: Table-based Shiatsu →

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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