History of Massage
Massage is considered to be among the oldest form of medical treatments used by man and has been used throughout our history by all cultures. Chinese records dating back 3,000 years documented its use. The ancient Hindus, Persians, and Egyptians used forms of massage for some ailments, to prevent and cure disease and to heal injuries. Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. In ancient Greek and Roman literature, there are numerous references to massage. Massage has always been greatly valued in India by use of "Ayurvedic Treatments", and in Indian system of medicine dating back to 1800 B.C. in which herbs, spices, and aromatic oils are rubbed into the skin.
In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, massage grew in popularity in Europe under the influence of a Swede, Per Henrik Ling (1776 - 1839), whose system of Swedish Massage spread throughout Europe to Russia, France, and then to America. By the end of the nineteenth century, massage was a popular medical treatment and was frequently used by eminent surgeons, cardiologists, and physicians. Massage was also used during World War I for treatment of nerve injury and shell shock.
Massage had a few lows when "Houses of Ill Fame" used the term to cloak their activities, when electrical apparatus became fashionable, and with the use of modern drugs.
But experience has shown that nothing can replace the human hand. Today, once again, the therapeutic value of massage is being recognized. It is regaining its rightful place in health care as a complement to other medical treatments and as a means of helping us all to maintain positive health.
Massage
The use of the work Massage is relatively new and probably derives from the Arabic word Masah which means "to stroke with the hand." Massage is one of the easiest ways to attain and maintain good health and is something we all do naturally. It is a healing instinct, innate in us all; we rub an aching shoulder or stroke a furrowed brow. Headaches, aches and pains, insomnia, tension and stress can all be alleviated with one simple instrument -- our hands. Touch is so natural to us that without it people can become depressed and irritable. We all need touch to give us a feeling of love, warmth and security. Perhaps just a few minutes spent massaging each other could prevent numerous ills both physical and mental.
Swedish Massage
There are a variety of bodywork techniques available today and each therapist has his/her own style. Swedish massage, the most common form of massage, mainly relaxes the muscles and eases aches and pains.
Reiki
The simplest translation of the Japanese word Reiki (pronounced Ray' - Key) is "universal life energy" the energy that enlivens and animates matter. The practice of Reiki focuses this energy and directs it through the hands of the practitioner. The concentrated flow of this energy accelerates the healing and balancing of the body, mind and spirit. This simple, gentle, non-invasive, hands-on healing method was re-discovered in the 19th century by Dr. Mikao Usui in ancient Tibetan scriptures. Today Reiki is internationally known and sought after as a simple and natural healing practice to use on oneself or others.
Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy
Physically relaxes the body
Calms the nervous system
Lowers blood pressure
Reduces heart rate
Slows respiration
Loosens tight muscles
Stretches connective tissue
Reduces chronic pain
Improves skin tone
Increases blood and lymph circulation
Speeds the removal of metabolic waste
Increases red blood cell counts
Relieves tired and aching muscles
Stimulates the release of endorphins
Improves muscle tone and decreases muscular deterioration
Increases flexibility and range of motion
Promotes deeper, more effective breathing
Speeds recovery from injuries and illness
Strengthens the immune system
Reduces swelling, scarring, and tension headaches
Improves posture
Increases tissue metabolism
Mental Benefits of Massage Therapy
Reduces mental stress
Promotes better sleep
Calms a negative attitude
Induces mental relaxation
Improves concentration
Emotional Benefits of Massage Therapy
Reduces anxiety
Enhances self-image
Provides a feeling of well-being
Promotes greater creative expression
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