Massage TherapyPresented by Lindsey Ross

Introduction and HistoryMessage Therapy has been around from more than 3,000 years with the earliest references being in Chinese medicine. It was believed that touch not only relieved muscle soreness, but that it also contributed a profound healing quality to ones life force or spiritual energy. Muscle massage has been practiced in many cultures and it is not just specific to the human species (Seaward 458).Massage Therapy is still not considered a dominant behavior in America, but humans in every culture need some regular form of healthy touch for their general well-being.

What is Massage Therapy?

Professional muscle message is defined as the manipulation of skin, muscles, ligaments, and connective tissue for purposes of decreasing muscle tension and increasing physical comfort of musculature and its surrounding joints.

Muscle massage creates harmony among the body, mind, and spirit.

Massage Therapy Research In 1999, John Naibitt, author of Magatrends 2000, said The more high technology around us, the greater the need for human touch.Research in the area of massage therapy has included a diverse study of demographics including premature babies, cocaine addicted babies, college students, recovering alcoholics, and the elderly among others. These studies indicate that massage is a very viable technique that not only promotes relaxation, but also has several other health-related benefits.

Massage Therapy BenefitsThe primary benefit of massage is muscle relaxation.

Other benefits also include increased blood and lymph flow, less susceptible to illnesses.

Overall sense of well-being specifically emotional well-being.

Increased awareness or recognition of the healing power of message in the US over the last several years.

Types of Massage

- Shiatsu - Swedish- Rolfing- Myofacial Release- Sports Massage

Shiatsu

A type of message, also known as acupressure, in which pressure is placed on various points (tsubos) to release blocked energy and thus promote relaxation.

Swedish Massage

The most common and well-known type of message in the Western culture that uses a variety of hand motions (e.g., kneading, stroking, and karate-type chops) to relieve tension for muscle tissue, often expressed as knots.

Rolfing

Deep-tissue massage created by Ida Rolf to promote better posture by working with the soft connective tissue around and between muscles.

Sports MessageA combination of Swedish massage, shiatsu, and some deep-tissue body work mow popular among professional and amateur athletes.

Other Touch Therapies

AromatherapyHydrotherapyPet TherapyTherapeutic Touch

Physiological and Psychological BenefitsStudies indicate that there is not only a physical relaxation effect, but in many cases an emotional benefit as well.

The effects that massage has on the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular systems have been said to increase flexibility and decrease muscle tension.Message therapy is known throughout the world and is used as a modality to decrease episodes of acute and chronic pain. Complete physical relaxation that people experience ensuring and immediately after a message.

ConclusionBeyond the benefits for specific conditions or diseases, some people enjoy massage because it often involves caring, comfort, a sense of empowerment and creating deep connections with their massage therapist.Anyone that has had a body massage can vouch for the positive effects as it leaves you relaxed and invigorated at the same time. However, what many people don't realize is that a good massage can do more than just make you feel good right after, it can actually help you improve your health.