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Massage Therapy


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History of Massage

Massage is one of the oldest complementary therapies and has been used for thousands of years, especially in ancient Greece, Egypt, Rome and the Far East. In the Far East ancient traditions of foot and hand massage, acupressure, and therapeutic massage have also been around for many years and are still widely used today. These ancient oriental techniques have also influenced the development of modern techniques such as reflexology.

The earliest writings about massage are from China and are thought to date back to around 3,000 BC. In the western world there have also been many writings about the benefits of massage throughout history, Homer the legendary poet of ancient Greece wrote about an oily medium used for massage, and Hippocrates, "the father of modern medicine" advised that aromatic baths and fragrant massage could improve your daily health.

Massage in the Modern World

Today massage and massage therapies are one of the fastest growing fields in western health care. Western Massage therapies are performed directly on the skin and involves the act of rubbing, kneading, patting the body to stimulate circulation, increase suppleness and relieve tension.

Oriental massage therapies usually involve using pressure techniques which are thought to release blockages and improve the flow of vital energy (or 'chi') through the body.

A typical full-body massage by a qualified massage therapist usually takes about an hour. Part-body massages such as neck / shoulder massages or foot massages usually take between 20 and 30 minutes.

Health Benefits of Massage

Massage is now a more widely accepted alternative therapy and has proved effective for many heath problems. Many doctors and health professionals now recommend massage as a treatment or additional therapy for many health problems and ailments, including poor circulation and back problems amongst others.

There are many health benefits to be gained from massage, these include:

  • Reduces tension, anxiety and stress.
  • Improves blood circulation and stimulates the lymphatic system
  • Relieves aching muscles, muscles cramps and spasms
  • Aids with the recovery from sports injuries
  • Promotes a sense of relaxation and well being.
  • Helpful for pain management with problems such as back and neck pain
  • Digestion problems
  • Ease discomfort during pregnancy
  • Reduce blood pressure
  • Helpful for Insomnia

A doctor or health professional should always be consulted if you wish to use massage to help with a particular ailment or illness.

Popular Types of Massage

  • Body massage
  • Aromatherapy massage
  • Indian head massage
  • Sports massage
  • Reflexology
  • Thai massage
  • Shiatsu.
  • Foot or sole massage
  • Stone massage
  • Swedish massage
  • Deep tissue massage

Finding A Massage Therapist

Qualified Massage therapists can be found at health / sports centres, beauty clinics, health spas and alternative health clinics.

To find a massage practitioner in your local area consult your local telephone directory or search online using a directory such as www.yell.com

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