Massage therapy: Ancient healing for the 21st century

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Massage therapy: Ancient healing for the 21st century
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Though Therapeutic Touch only recently became a popular addition to Western medicine, using massage as a healing method has roots dating back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence of massage has been found in many ancient civilisations including China, India, Japan, Korea, Egypt, Rome, Greece and Mesopotamia. The name comes from the arabic word massa, meaning to touch, feel or handle. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of different methods of massage therapy, which vary according to the healing traditions of the culture they stem from. Deep tissue, aromatherapeutic, lymphatic drainage, reflexology...the list goes on and on, and today you can find many kinds of massage to choose from at spas and wellness centres almost everywhere you go.
[h=2]The benefits of massage therapy[/h] The father of medicine, Hippocrates, wrote in the fifth century: “The physician must be experienced in many things, but certainly in massage.â€￾ Massage has been praised for its important health and wellbeing benefits since the beginning of time, as it promotes healing and recovery from injury, improves blood circulation, and relaxes the muscles. It plays an important role in homeostasis (the body's ability to maintain stable physiological conditions) and immune system health.
Besides its physical benefits, massage also has proven anti-stress effects. For most people, times of tension need most physical contact. Studies have shown that skin-on-skin contact activates the brain's pleasure centres, releasing those famous endorphins – chemicals in the brain that have simultaneous stress-relieving, psycho-stimulating and even euphoric effects.
Certain techniques of massage therapy, such as skin rolling, are also slimming. They break up cellulite and fat deposits, allowing excess fat to be flushed out through the bloodstream and lymphatic system.
When it comes to injury or disease, massage therapy can be very beneficial for healing, removal of toxins and rehabilitating muscles. Your doctor or physiotherapist will recommend the best method for you. *
[h=2]For all ages[/h] Patients of any age can use massage therapy for stress, injury or general wellbeing. Infant massage, commonly practised in India, has gained new popularity in the West. Pregnant women and the elderly are not excluded from those who can benefit from the healing powers of touch.
Besides the experience and know-how of the practitioner, the key to a successful massage lies in your ability to let go and welcome the healing touch. Let yourself really experience the restorative sensations, listen to your body and breathe. The more you relax, the more beneficial the massage will be.

Catherine Maillard
More information:
Getting a good massage
Thai massage
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