subject: Body Massage: Relieve Muscle Spasms Sooner [print this page] Massage has been used dating back 3,000 in ancient China. Most ancient civilizations years document the use of massage. The ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians, as well as the Japanese, Romans and Egyptians applied different forms of massage to cure a variety of ailments. Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems. These days, here in the 21st century the United States has adopted some of these, and have made others our own. Many different forms of massage therapies are used to offer specific benefits to both the mind and body. When I had my first full Body Massage I was thrilled at how I felt afterwards. As well as feeling refreshed, my skin felt great. This was a bonus!
Upon receipt of a full body massage come the benefits of better sleep, healthier joints and muscles, as well as less stress, better circulation and even digestion. There is a whole series of different massage methods that work from the skin to the deep tissue and organs, with even a variety of oils and scents.
In order to give a massage, specialized massage tables and chairs are used to position clients during massages. A typical commercial massage table has an easily cleaned, heavily padded surface, and a horseshoe-shaped head support that allows the client to breathe easily while lying face down and can be stationary or portable. This is cleaned between massages, keeping everything very hygienic. An orthopedic pillow or bolster can be used to correct body positioning. Sometimes, mats are used.
As well as using tables, chairs are often used. These, like the tables can be either stationary or portable. Chair massages are popular, as massage chairs are easily portable and can be taken to a mall, office or other public places. The client is not required to take off his/her clothes (as this is in public!) in order to sit in a chair for massage. Massage tables are not appropriate for public locations as these are heavy to carry, and generally the client will disrobe and be covered with towels.
A complete body massage is very personal to many people, and generally entails arms, back, begs, front and back and shoulders being massaged. As all of us have different ailments we all need a tailored massage to suit our own needs. We need to be completely comfortable with our massage therapist, as we are generally completely nude, with towels covering for modesty. Each part that is being massaged will be exposed, while the rest is still covered.
A full body massage is great to help people who want to unwind and relax! It is very relaxing. Some of these include Swedish, holistic, deep tissue, and aromatherapy. These massages will leave you full of life, invigorated! In the United States there are about 90,000 massage therapists. Most states in the United States require a license to practice massage therapy. If a state does not have any massage laws, then the national certification in massage therapy is not required and a practitioner need not apply for a license with the state. Training programs in the US are typically 500-1000 hours in length, and can award a certificate, diploma, or degree depending on the particular school. Incidentally, in South Korea only the blind and visually impaired are allowed to practice massage therapy!
