Healing through touch goes back to early civilization. It was originated in Asia 5000 years ago, where ancient Eastern Chinese used it to heal labor pains to paralysis. Effects of therapeutic massage and manipulation were written by Hippocrates during the Greek era. Ancient Egyptian tombs have left evidence of massage practice through their embellished walls. Even Julius Caesar used massage therapy to alleviate his nerve pain (neuralgia) and epileptic seizures. Although most cultures have developed some type of touch therapy; attitudes towards touch vary widely from culture to culture. Most recently, the benefits have been more precisely identified and categorized as physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
Physically, massage relaxes muscles relieving muscle tension and loosening sore joints. It also improves blood and lymph circulation. Massage is also thought to release body toxins and stimulate immune system, thereby helping the body to fight disease. Recently, study shows that massage even works for breast cancer patients. According to the study, massage therapy can lower the pain levels of breast cancer patient. This is a natural way to ease discomforts.
In the mental, massage reduces mental stress and provide a sense of relaxation and well being. Moreover, it promotes better sleep, calms bad temper, and improves concentration and focus. Emotionally, massage relieves anxiety, enhances self image and promotes greater creative expression. Spiritual benefit provides a sense of harmony and balance. The person who is receiving the massage may enter the meditative state, thus relaxing and expanding their awareness.
Indulging your self with this relaxing activity is the perfect way to end a stressful week. Nowadays, there are numerous massage therapies available around the world. Here are some of the most popular choices which you can try out.
• Swedish massage includes techniques such as long strokes, kneading, friction, tapping, percussion, vibration, effleurage, and shaking motions. It uses massage oils to facilitate smooth, gliding strokes over the whole body. The purpose of this massage is to allow the body to absorb more oxygen, thereby rejuvenating the body. Swedish massage feels good, is relaxing and invigorating. It distresses the muscles, nerves, circulation, and glands, while promoting health and well being.
• Aromatherapy massage includes treatment utilizing essential oils. These oils are also known to have healing properties that makes the massage more effective. It is soothing, calming, invigorating and energizing. This massage is suited for people with stressful lifestyle and for conditions rooted from emotions
