Who wouldn’t want a massage from time to time? People can’t resist the temptation of a massage especially when they are given ‘gift vouchers’. At present, a massage is a therapy that is well-loved by many people.
Massage has been in existence for many years. In fact, according to many studies, massage has already existed for as long as anyone can remember. It can only be performed by the ‘gifted’ and today the skill can be easily learned. There are already massage courses that teach individuals who are willing to learn the skills.
Did you know that even animals know how to massage? Try to observe a mother dog, cat, or sheep after giving birth to their young. The mother will lick their young and it is some form of massage that is necessary for survival.
Massage has many uses. Athletes usually undergo massage therapy after a tiring game; stressed housewives find relaxation in massage therapy; and even palliative care use massage to achieve peace.
The business industry is now utilizing massage not only as a therapy but for increasing the overall production of their employees. Corporate massages are quite common where you don’t need to take off your clothes. In Europe, this is a very popular practice in offices.
The earliest recording of a massage is in China way back in 1400 BC. Back then, the Chinese people used massage for therapy. Massage can effectively relieve pain and certain ailments. From the original technique, the Chinese introduced the ‘Moxa’ wherein they used certain herbs. Such herbs were burned near the afflicted area and they rubbed the smoke into the patient. Another form of massage is acupuncture. In this technique, needles are inserted in different parts of the body.
The Greeks used massage as therapy as well. Massage was able to treat many illnesses. Massage was used together with diet, herbs, and air. Hippocrates even used massage for treating dislocations, sprains, and constipation. The Romans also had similar practices. In fact, Julius Caesar loved massages and it was done to him daily.
Years later, Galen also showed much interest in massage and he believed that it can work miracles to the body. He massaged his patients and gave them herbal tonics to address different health conditions.
It was only in the 18th century when massage was introduced in Europe. The word originated from the Portuguese which meant ‘to knead’. The Portuguese had many Asian colonies and they might have learned about massage there and called it ‘amasser’. Henry Ling was the father of relaxation massage in Europe. He established various massage movements and his method is now called Swedish massage.
The reason why massage is used as a therapy is because it has many health benefits. After a tiring day, a massage can help you relax. You will be able to sleep better at night if you frequently undergo massage therapy. Most massage practitioners use essentials oils like jasmine, bergamot, and lavender to counter stress. This is one way for their patients to feel relaxed.
You must choose a qualified and experienced masseuse. Most masseuses are schooled in aromatherapy because they use various oils depending on the health concerns of their patients. This is very important because essential oils have different effects on the body. For example, lavender can reduce blood pressure. The masseuse can’t use lavender for a patient with low blood pressure; if they use the oil, the patient may end up feeling dizzy once he or she stands up.
An expert masseuse will usually ask questions about the person’s health. It would be best to use neutral oils like sweet almond, jojoba, and avocado during a massage. Still, if you plan to book for massage therapy, only choose an expert. Search for qualified massage therapists in your area. You can do this online. You need to find the appropriate therapist since each massage comes in different types. Oftentimes, people request a relaxation massage because it can ease tension and stress. Even children and babies can be gently massaged but again, make sure that it is done by the experts.
Massage as a therapy is greatly accepted these days and many people are already choosing it as an alternative treatment procedure.