 Why Massage?
Massage may be the oldest form of medical care our planet has known- the first documented use was by the Chinese over 3,000 years ago. The ancient Hindus developed Ayurveda, a system of medicine that relies heavily on massage, and ancient tombs in Egypt reveal paintings of people performing massage. Massage is a therapeutic technique that helps the musculoskeletal, digestive, respiratory, reproductive, circulatory, lymphatic, and endocrine systems, in addition to relieving stress and enhancing overall health. Swedish massage, the method most familiar to Westerners, was developed in the 19th century by a Swedish doctor, poet, and educator named Per Henrik Ling. His system was based on a study of gymnastics and physiology, and on techniques borrowed from China, Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
The father of massage therapy in the United States was Cornelius E. De Puy, MD, who published the first journal on the subject in 1817. Although traces of the massage parlor image still exist, therapeutic massage is now widely recognized for its many health benefits. Therapeutic massage is now used for people of all ages, and in all stages of life, from infancy to pregnancy to old age and the end of life. Also, more and more people with health-challenging conditions such as cancer, AIDS, heart attacks, or strokes are turning to massage therapy for help.
The benefits of massage therapy have been documented in a large body of scientific research. Studies show massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and increases endorphin levels. Massage has been shown to improve immune system function, facilitate recovery from surgery, and reduce pain. Although therapeutic massage does not increase muscle strength, it can stimulate weak, inactive muscles and, thus, partially compensate for the lack of exercise and inactivity resulting from illness or injury. It also can hasten and lead to a more complete recovery from the injury or exercise.
Massage therapy also has been shown to increase the alertness and performance of office workers, and to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress. Since 80-90% of ailments brought to family practice doctors are stress-related, it can be asserted that massage therapy is an excellent tool for disease prevention and wellness. Massage therapy also increases mind-body awareness, and satisfies the human need for nurturing touch.
There are many varieties of massage therapy, and more are being developed all the time. The most common types in the US are Swedish, sports massage and shiatsu. Swedish massage is what most Americans think of as massage. It incorporates long gliding stokes, kneading and compression motions, and other techniques to increase circulation and break down muscle adhesions. This massage is most often used to induce relaxation, and to heal injuries.
Sports massage is geared to the athlete, and used during both training and competition. Sports massage reduces muscle tension and therefore can reduce injury. Sports massage is also used as a rehabilitation massage after injury to help in the healing process, increase range of motion, and reduce swelling, pain, bruising, and adhesions.
Shiatsu is a Japanese therapy that has ancient oriental roots, but has evolved using both Eastern and Western techniques. Shiatsu involves the application of pressure along energy meridians, and is performed with the client fully clothed. Shiatsu practitioners apply pressure with their thumbs, knuckles, palms, and elbows to move trapped ki (or life force energy), thought to be the cause of pain and illness.
Most ancient healing practices, such as lomi lomi, or Hawaiian healing massage, offer a holistic approach. In lomi, the client receives healing for the spirit, mind and body. Prayer is an integral part of the practice, and Hawaiian herbs may also be prescribed.
Many modern massage therapists are incorporating ancient and modern therapies to create a mind-body-spirit approach to healing. For example, some practitioners use aromatherapy, crystals or stones during sessions. In addition, many practitioners incorporate other types of bodywork, such as Reiki (energy work), craniosacral therapy, or acupuncture.
Which massage is suited for you? It is important to find the right practioner for you, since you are entrusting yourself to your therapist’s care. Choose a therapist who has great integrity and whose values you espouse, in addition to someone who has proper training in technique. When you and your therapist are in harmony, you may notice that wonderful things begin to happen. You may arrive at your therapist’s office feeling run down, stressed out and in pain, and walk out feeling lighter, relaxed and loved. There are many approaches to massage, but most massage therapists agree that the power of touch can improve quality of life in magical way.
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