History
Massage
goes as far back in history as the existence of man. It is
probably the oldest form of medical treatment and it has
been used throughout history in all cultures. The word massage
derives from an Arabic word 'masah' which means to stroke
with the hand. Ancient Chinese, Indian and Egyptian writings
refer to massage for prevention and cure of diseases and
healing injuries. Ancient Greek and Roman literature also
refers to massage. In the 18th and 19th centuries massage
grew in popularity in Europe. The Swede, Ling, devised the
system of Swedish massage which we use today. Massage is
today regaining its rightful place in health care as a complement
to other medical treatments.
Benefits
Massage is one of the easiest ways of reaching
and maintaining good health. It is natural to all of us to
rub parts of the body when they are aching. The basis of
massage is touch, and there is now medical evidence showing
the value of touch. Without touch people can become irritable
and depressed. In our society there is confusion between
sensuality and sexuality and touch has become very formalised.
Massage removes the taboos of touching and allows people
to be touched in a positive way. Massage has profound effects
on the health of the person being massaged.
Neurology
Massage encourages the release
of endorphins, the body's natural opiates that reduce pain
and produce a feeling of well being.
Circulation
Massage improves circulation
by assisting the flow of venous blood from extremities back
to the heart. It also pushes blood into superficial vessels
and capillaries which may not always receive enough blood,
thus carrying more nutrients and oxygen to organs, muscles
and other tissue.
Digestion
Massage of the abdomen will stimulate
the muscles of the stomach, intestines and bowel increasing
efficient digestion. This means a more complete elimination
of toxins and a decrease in the amount of disease causing
bacteria in the body.
Muscles
Through tension and overuse muscles
often remain in a permanent state of contraction, causing
pain, blockages and reduced flexibility and range of movement.
Massage enables muscles to relax and lengthen. Massage also
encourages fresh blood into the congested area, bringing
fresh nutrients and oxygen to the fatigued muscle; massage
also aids the removal of toxic waste products produced by
muscle action. Massage works directly into injured muscles
and fascia to encourage repair. Exercise can be more regular
if muscles are functioning better due to massage.
Other benefits
The production of red blood cells, the lowering
of high blood pressure and improving the function of glands
in the skin are only some of the other physical benefits
of massage.
Lymphatic drainage
The lymphatic system
fights infection and develops immunity. It can only operate
with the assistance of healthy muscle action. Massage improves
this process.
Secondary Effects
The direct physical benefits
of massage combined with the psychological effects of being
cared for quickly produce a marvellous feeling of well being
and relaxation which cannot be matched by modern drugs. One
massage is wonderful, but the accumulative effects of regular
massage are to be recommended. |
