Saturday, March 9, 2013

What Everyone Should Know About Massage

By Shane McConnell


Though we might not be aware of the long history of massage, we may reap benefits from having one. More than 80 massage modalities are currently utilized and massage in general has existed for centuries. It is commonly used to free tension from our bodies, improve the functioning of our organs, and help us heal from injury, among other valuable benefits.

In writings and drawings from ancient China, Mesopotamia, Greece, and other civilizations, reference to massage can be found. One of the unique traditional methods of relieving certain illnesses in Romania involved a massage delivered by a tame bear. Today, this may not be so well-received but during those days, effective treatment was provided by the tame creatures.

Currently, massage therapists provide us with our treatments. Before they are considered qualified to do so, they attend school to learn techniques like Shiatsu, reflexology, and deep tissue. The most talented can use multiple techniques and work as easily with medical patients as with athletes or the average person. A massage therapist may have an office or travel to client locations such as a home or company.

Primary goals realized through massage include relaxation, expedited healing, improved body functioning, and a greater sense of overall well-being. When performing massage, a professional uses not only the fingers and hands but also the elbows, knees, feet, and forearms, depending on the modality. Clients either sit in a specially-designed massage chair or lie on a mat or massage table. The type of massage determines whether any clothing should be removed.

Treatment focus often determines how a massage works. Endorphins and serotonin may be released through activation of our parasympathetic nervous system. Prevention of excessive connective or scar tissue development may increase lymph flow. Sleep is often improved due to the relaxing effect of massage, resulting in less aching and pain. Client symptoms and massage methods used determine additional clinical benefits.




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