subject: Why Get A Massage [print this page] Massage and bodywork techniques have been in use for over 3,000 years for easing muscle tension, diagnosing illness and calming the mind. In many countries today,Japan, Egypt, Africa, and The United Kingdom, massage and bodywork hold a prestigious place in the study of disease and healing. Although in use as an alternative healing tool in the United States, the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body and the application of stretch, and acupressure to the soft tissues of the body, or massage and bodywork are valuable preventative and healing tools. These techniques cause positive and measurable physical reactions to the body. Receptors in our muscles respond by toning, easing pain, and increasing healing time. Fascia, such as skin and body tissue soften and tone, organs and glands release chemicals that enhance the body's immune system, allowing it to realign, heal and release tension and toxins. Massage is widely utilized for relaxation but also has the potential to decrease pain signals within the body, speed the recovery time of illness, and provide for a wider range of mobility and flexibility in the muscle and joints of even the sedentary.
" The New England Journal of Medicine" notes the health effects of massage and bodywork. A renowned Doctor in the field of massage research, Dr. tiffany Fields indicates the usefulness of massage for maintaining health and preventing disease. The journal also cites the beneficial effects of the healing tools for low back pain; the use of acupressure, yoga, massage, and bodywork for fibromyalgia, and chronic headaches; as well as the support of ice, heat, massage and stretching for plantar fasciitis.
Many other indications for massage therapy and bodywork are improved skin tone and elasticity, decreased appearance of cellulite, and greater skin hydration. Additional pluses include a boost to the body's metabolism, greater joint range of motion, less aches and pains after a work out, prolonged yard work or sports activities.
For those of us feeling less than youthful, these alternative therapies have the added benefit of removing and renewing skin cells, along with drinking water and better protection from the sun. For more information on the effects of these alternative therapies see the following websites: www.massagetherapy.com, www.wikipedia.com, and www.massageresource.com.
