Massage Elements of Technique
The massage elements define how a technique is performed and experienced. It is an assessment tool to help understand and refine the quality of touch. The massage elements are point, shape, pressure, line, movement, and temperature.
- Point: This element refers to any area of your body or tool that comes into contact with a client. There are three types of points: focal, presence, and secondary. Additionally, point also determine how hot, warm, or cold a technique feels.
- Shape: This element is the shape of a point, defining the kind of sensation a technique generates, based on its size and form.
- Pressure: This is a combination of the kinetic force applied and the perceived pressure of a technique.
- Line: This element helps us remain in constant contact with a client and is the foundation of effective transitions. A line is the path of a point and its direction.
- Movement: This element measures the rhythm, speed, and resistance of a technique as a line. Movement may be static or dynamic.
Using The Elements of Massage
Effleurage, petrissage, friction, vibration, and tapotement are the most basic techniques. They provide a foundation that, when combined with analysis, creativity, and exploration, leads to the discovery of unlimited techniques.
When performing a massage, analyze your touch using each massage element. Next, identify ways to enhance your client’s enjoyment by adjusting your technique.
- Identify your points of contact. Focus on where your fingers are pressing into their skin. For example, often, we forget what our other fingers are doing while performing petrissage, which can lead to unintended sensations or discomfort without our awareness.
- Analyze the level of kinetic force you are applying and assess whether it matches your client’s perceived level of pressure. Rather than focusing on the pressure you are using, ask what kind of experience they want to feel. When clients want firm pressure, they typically want a hurts so good kind of sensation. Experiment with the shape of your points to find the most effective way to deliver this sensation with less kinetic force.
- Practice with someone to map out the sensory zones of specific muscles. Every muscle can experience multiple sensations based on how you massage it. This knowledge can help you create a variety of sensations with minimal work.
- Experiment with hot and cold applications of touch to see how it influences your client’s sensory experiences through the application of your techniques.
Five Elements of Massage
Would you like to learn more about five elements of massage?
Shawn is a cancer survivor, a Christian, and a massage therapist who is dedicated to helping you discover the peace and pain relief you seek. As an avid researcher and prolific writer he serves as an invaluable asset to his clients, because he is committed to helping you live your best life.
Shawn is a member of the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP), Alliance for Massage Therapy Education (AFTME), and Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP).
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Patrick Baker9 October 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Massage class was awesome. Shawn was very attentive and open. Communicated very wellPosted on Google
Kristin Pavia25 September 2026Shawn gave wonderful information about the whys of everything! He truly cares and wants his clients better and overall health and happiness for them! If you want a personal connection and great way to feel better I highly suggest using him!Posted on Google
lisa hagedorn16 August 2026First visit, started with a brief discussion about what I wanted or needed. My massage therapist was very friendly and knowledgeable about my needs. Was able to relax and really enjoy my massage.Posted on Google
Cheryl “Elder Cheryl” Robinson-Moore12 August 2026I went for a lymphatic drainage massage. The experience was exceeded my expectations and the results were remarkably long lasting. I recommended Jennifer to my postal rep. I can't wait treatment!Posted on Google
Living Man 19598 August 2026Shawn was absolutely fantastic. He took very good care of me and my wife and listened to our concerns and addressed them professionally and was overall a great man to meet. We will definitely be coming back here more!Posted on Google
Erin Madigan13 July 2026Shawn was great! Asked what my goal was at the start of the appointment. Checked on how I was feeling/pressure a couple times throughout the session. I am currently pregnant and went for a prenatal massage, he even made sure to let me know that if I were to go somewhere else for a massage while pregnant if they didn’t have the prenatal table or bed wedge that it was not in my best interest, AMAZING patient advocacy! I definitely plan on returning!Posted on Google
Saskia Mentor10 July 2026First time at this place and we loved it! My partner and I got a couples massage today and will definitely return. The whole experience was catered to us, and both masseuses checked in regularly to make sure we were comfortable and enjoying our experience. We each wanted separate things out of our massages, and Shawn and Connor took the time to make sure we got those things. The atmosphere was soothing and comfortable, with comfortable blankets and a quiet soundscape playing in the background. Thank you guys for making us both so comfortable and treating us both with such care!Posted on Google
Lynn Martin3 July 2026Fabulous relaxing massage with all over care…highly recommend Shawn! You will melt…Posted on Google
Allison Moushey26 June 2026Just got my first massage ever with Shawn. It was so wonderful 😌 Since it was my first time he explained everything clearly to know for this massage and for future references if I were to go anywhere else to best advocate for myself. Incredibly professional and thoughtful. He listened to my areas of concern and checked in throughout. It was also a great combination of conversation and comfortable silence to drift a bit. Left feeling calm and relaxed. Very happy with my experience! Thank you, Shawn!Posted on Google
Mandi Kindhart18 June 2026Jennifer Brand provided an exceptional experience that exceeded my expectations. I was impressed by the professionalism and intend to make this my go-to destination for monthly massages. Connor was outstanding in his approach, displaying care, concern, and authenticity. He carefully assessed my needs and delivered targeted relief. I highly recommend this establishment for its excellent services and serene atmosphere.Posted on Google
shelly simon1 June 2026Great experience, wonderful servicePosted on Google
Tori Loesche29 May 2026I did the Pain Management massage with Shawn - it was a total experience! The education, atmosphere, massage technique, fun tools all made for a fantastic massage. He listened well to the areas I was hurting and tailored his massage accordingly. Highly recommend this place! The price is a little steeper than what I’ve paid at other places, but all in all it was a great experience for the reward I got from it.Posted on Google
Toni Tomazi19 May 2026My husband and I did a couple massage… wow Connor and Shawn did amazing. We are planning our next visit asap!Posted on Google
Allie Centerino12 May 2026I loved my prenatal massage with Shawn! The table allows you to be on your stomach - such a blessing during pregnancy!Posted on Google
Angie Barrett6 May 2026I was planting flowers over the weekend and strained my back. Saw Shawn for half hour pain management message. He worked to eliminate the pain and I walked out of there as good as new. No pain! The atmosphere is so comfortable. I’m a believer! This was my first visit but I am sure it won’t be my last. I highly recommend it!!!Posted on Google
Jennifer Mitman5 May 2026Natalie was wonderful!Posted on Google
Jazzy Fullerton2 May 2026Highly recommend! We had a 60 minute couples massage done by Connor & Shawn. They were extremely professional, polite, and skilled!Posted on Google
Laura Harris2 May 2026Shawn’s attentiveness is like no other massage experience I’ve had. This is more than relaxation, his philosophy about pain and how he structures his sessions have made a huge impact for me in only two visits. I highly recommend seeing him if you have any aches and pains and really want to let go of them for good.Posted on Google
Debbie Schroeder1 April 2026I had my first hydrafacial with Jennifer Brand Spa. It was a great experience. Rebecca was excellent and incorporated some neck and foot massage into the hydrafacial. The spa environment was peaceful and relaxing.Posted on Google
Sarah Eichelberger28 March 2026Rebeca gave the best massage I’ve ever had! It relieved so much of my neck and shoulder pain from my car accident!!Posted on Google
Tracy Mooney22 March 2026I thoroughly enjoyed my massage with Natalie! She communicated well with me what was going to be done requested how much pressure I would like and was very open with my request.Posted on Google
Cindy Mojeske4 March 2026Shawn is beyond amazing! I could barely walk when I went to see him and with only 1 massage I was able to move without excruciating discomfort.Posted on Google
Lindsey Ott28 February 2026Rebecca is HANDS DOWN the best masseuse I’ve ever had. From lymphatic drainage to the best deep tissue. 5 stars all around 😍Posted on Google
Kim Grierson22 February 2026Had a great hot stone massage! Will definitely go back to this spaPosted on Google
Kerri Yates16 February 2026Great place very relaxing. Connor was great. Would recommend this place. Very professionalPosted on Google
Matthew Elgart8 February 2026Great massage! Shawn was professional, knowledgeable, and kind! Recommend for anyone in the O’Fallon area looking for a refreshing visit! Thank you!!Posted on Google
Melissa Wright4 February 2026Definitely one of the best and most comprehensive massages I’ve had. Shawn shared his knowledge about pain feedback loops and his incredible life experience. This undoubtedly helps him connect to people and his craft in a really thoughtful and unique way.Posted on Google
Sarah Hase31 January 2026Shawn White did an amazing job on my prenatal massage. Highly recommend. Thank you so much for the care.Posted on Google
JOYCE Rogers30 January 2026Conner is a wonderful massage therapist!!! I highly recommend him to help you with reducing pain and stress!!!Posted on Google
Stephanie Kirk19 January 2026Shawn was amazing!!!! Highly recommend!Posted on Google
Mitchell W.16 January 2026My wife and I did a couple's massage and it was excellent.Posted on Google
Meagan Schulte16 January 2026My husband and I took the couples massage class with Shawn. He was so knowledgeable, supportive, and created a very safe environment for learning. We each had the opportunity to observe Shawn demonstrate techniques and then practice them ourselves. He provided excellent feedback and helped us learn to effectively communicate with one another about how we were experiencing the massage, both how to check in and how to provide kind and honest feedback. It is clear Shawn is not only a master in his craft, but beyond that, he’s an excellent teacher. We will definitely be back.Posted on Google
E Thomas5 January 2026The couples massage class was very informative. We learned a lot and will use what we learned in the near future. Definitely recommend this class.Posted on Google
Trysten Staley5 January 2026Natalie was amazing. My first time here and I couldn’t have been more relaxed but still worked on areas that I was having issues with. Can’t wait for my next session.Posted on Google
Brad Chandler31 December 2025Had a great session with Rebecca today. Highly recommend her for deep tissuePosted on Google
Cynthia Manlove28 December 2025Great massage!! Definately woth the pricePosted on Google
rungej1422 December 2025I received a great massage.Posted on Google
Nate Simpson20 December 2025Rebecca has been life-changing for me. I came in with years of daily pain from a tilted pelvis, rounded shoulders, and forward head posture. The pain was constant and exhausting, and I had started to believe this was just my normal. Her deep tissue work has made a real, noticeable difference. She’s incredibly skilled, intentional, and truly listens to what your body needs. Session by session, she’s helped undo problems I carried for years. Rebecca has been an absolute godsend. I move better, hurt less, and finally feel hope instead of frustration. If you’re dealing with chronic pain and think nothing will help, I can’t recommend her enough. Thank you RebeccaPosted on Google
Melanie & Chris Cassidy14 December 2025My partner and I were able to take a couples massage class with Shawn. Shawn is a natural teacher and was very patient. He taught us so much and had such a wonderful perspective on touch, intimacy, and relationships. Shawn was very informative and encouraging. We really enjoyed our experience and signed up for another class at a future date. I cannot recommend this enough!Posted on Google
Erin Henry24 November 2025I would HIGHLY recommend this establishment to anyone. I had a sisters day with my sister in law for her birthday and treated her to a head to toe experience and from the moment we walked in we were greeted with kindness, and professionalism. This was our first experience receiving a massage so we both weren’t sure how the process would be, the staff was kind, patient & very thorough with the explanation of what was to be expected. I love that we were treated with the utmost respect and an experience that was SO relaxing. 10/10 WILL be back!Posted on Google
Barbara Henke5 November 2025Wonderful experience! Very clean and well organized. Will definitely be back.Posted on Google
Stephany Davenport28 October 2025Great couples massage. Shawn and Matt did a great job! Very satisfied.Posted on Google
Ashlee Hoffman25 October 2025Great service! Tailored my massage to exactly what I needed!Posted on Google
Rich Kopf17 October 2025Shawn lead an excellent couples massage class that my girlfriend and I loved. It was a lot of fun and my girlfriend and I learned a ton about how to massage each other in a safe, comfortable environment.Posted on Google
Stephanie Binder8 October 2025Shawn was amazing. I was a bit nervous because of a recent back surgery but he was incredibly gently & understood my anxiety. The massage was just what I needed & he has gained a new client in me. Well done Shawn White.Posted on Google
Claudia Rutherford6 October 2025My daughter was treated to a deep tissue massage and she Loved the treatment and massage therapist! I booked one now too!Posted on Google
Samantha Erhardt27 September 2025I wish I had come in much sooner!! My massage with Connor was exceptional! It’s been a challenge learning to live in and be in and trust my body post-stroke, but Connor took me on a beautiful journey back to myself. Many, many thanks to you, Connor, and toJennifer Brand for making my experience the soulful and memorable time exactly what I needed on my healing journey!!Can’t wait to return!Posted on Google
Toni Neistat27 September 2025Absolutely awesome!! Really focused on my problem areas and I learned alotPosted on Google
Jacob Bartosiak27 September 2025Shawn and Connor were amazing. So welcoming. We were very pleased with our experience. Hospitality was perfect that made for a comfortable experience.Posted on Google
Hayley Dixon26 September 2025Wonderful massage!! The most relaxing massage I have ever had! I will definitely be back!Posted on Google
Reuben French20 September 2025Got a couples massage at a friend's recommendation. It was worth every cent.Posted on Google
Kristy Davis6 September 2025The best service I've ever hadPosted on Google
Claire Thayer30 August 2025I’ve never had a professional massage before — this was incredible! I had the head, neck, and scalp massage package with Monica. She was warm from the moment I walked into the spa and spoke in a soothing tone. She made me much more comfortable with the idea of getting a massage and melted away all my anxieties! I left feeling so relaxed, I’m a new mom and this was exactly what I needed to feel like myself again.Posted on Google
Katelynn Walters28 August 2025I received a pain management massage here with Shawn and it was of the best massages I've received. He focused on my area of pain and made sure that when I left that I felt relaxed and so much better.Posted on Google
Rhonda Turner25 August 2025Rebecca is absolutely amazing! I will definitely be back!Posted on Google
Dee Yates22 August 2025I had a fantastic massage with Monica. She is incredibly knowledgeable and attentive, taking the time to understand what I needed before we started. Throughout the session, she applied just the right amount of pressure—firm enough to release tension, but always comfortable. I left feeling relaxed, refreshed, and with noticeably less muscle tightness. Monica’s professionalism and skill really set her apart, and I’d highly recommend her to anyone looking for a high-quality, restorative massage.Posted on Google
Michele Rosenberg19 August 2025We did a couples massage for our anniversary and Sean and Conner were very engaged in making sure we had a positive experience. As a result we scheduled our next one before we left!Posted on Google
Nameless11 August 2025I went here for months for prenatal massages with Rebecca, and once with Shawn when I couldn’t wait another week for my next appointment. Shawn is very attentive and also did a session with my partner once that he enjoyed as well, and every session I had with Rebecca was wonderful. I could feel the difference it made on me during my pregnancy, and as someone who enjoys not-so-soft massages, she was perfect but is willing to adjust to what you need. I really don’t have any cons because even the price of it was justified for the service I was getting. They give you the full time in the room, let you wear a level of clothing you’re comfortable in, and it’s very peaceful inside.Posted on Google
Alicia North7 August 2025Shawn was great. My neck definitely feels much better. Thanks Shawn!!Posted on Google
Casey Colbert3 August 2025Shawn White was great! Addressed my needs and educated me on my soreness.Verified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
