Body massage is a touch therapy that entails the therapeutic manipulation of soft tissue targeting problem areas, and resulting in relaxation, sense of well being and alleviation of discomfort.

History

Massage therapy has existed for many years, the earliest evidence dating as far back as 200BC. Archaeologists found cave paintings from the Greek and Roman era depicting people massaging one another, along with artefacts such as fats, oils and mixed herbs. These are believed to have been used as lubricants to assist in the movements of massage. Evidence also identifies countries such as China, Japan, India and Egypt as establishing the use of massage. The Chinese used massage as a form of rehabilitation, curing ailments and enhancing general health. Japan developed a technique of using pressure on specific areas of the body. The Hindus used the process of massage to maintain their high standard of hygiene; and lastly, the Egyptians and Persians used massage for cosmetic and therapeutic reasons.

Historical figures who incorporated massage into their lives were Hippocrates of Cos (460-377 B.C), Asclepiades (a Greek physican) and Julius Caesar (100-44 B.C).

Swedish massage was developed by a Swedish Physiologist called Per Henrik Ling (1776-1839). Ling used a technique that involved passive and active exercises that were referred to as Swedish Remedial Gymnastics along with a combination of movements termed: ‘effleurage’, ‘petrissage’, ‘vibration’, ‘friction’ and ‘rolling’ - terms that are still used today. Ling recognised that anatomy and physiology played a large role in understanding and performing the massage technique competently.

What are the benefits associated with massage?

• Helps to reduce anxiety, stress and depression.
• Assists in improving the condition of your skin
• Increases drainage of lymph (detox)
• Assists in toning muscles.
• Promotes total relaxation.
• Nourishing to hair
• Increases circulation.
• Softens fatty tissue.