subject: Remedy Soreness More Effectively with a Massage [print this page] In all my years on this earth, I have only had one massage! Now that I know the many benefits and history of massage, I'll be looking forward to a series of massages. It is an ancient form of healing and ways of relaxation and rest. It is found in to ancient cultures. Records of different massages go back through the ages in all parts of the world to many ancient civilizations.
Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue, to enhance function and promote relaxation and well-being. Massage became popular in the US in the 1800s and grew in popularity until the 1930s and 40s. With the development of modern medicine, it was discounted as lesser than. It made a re-appearance in the 1960s and 1970s when nurses began to use it to alleviate pain in patients. In the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta massage was deemed a core medical service and its popularity rose again.
There are many words in many languages that give us the word massage. I love studying different languages. It's especially exciting when all cultures have the same word and customs. The word comes from the Latin word frictio", as well as from the French word meaning friction or kneading", and the Arabic word massa" meaning to touch, feel or handle.
There are many ways of having a massage done. There are also many types of oils, seeds etc that can be used. A person receiving a massage may be on a mat, chair, or table, usually without clothes, but covered with towels or sheets. If one is uncomfortable with this, he/she may wear underwear. As far as remedies, oils may be used to cause relaxation or to stimulate blood flow. Body rocks, warm and cold coated in different sorts of oils such as fractionated coconut oil, grape seed oil, olive oil, macadamia oil, sesame oil, pecan oil and mustard and aromatherapy oils are also used. What a combination!
If you think this enough variety, between the different seasonings, oils, mixes, rocks, tables, mats, clothed or not etc, wait until you hear about how many different body parts are used in giving a massage! A massage can be applied by using the masseuses hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms or feet. Yes, feet! You can be walked on by someone, and if done properly it can feel good.
Anyway, one must find one's favorite type of massage. Not only are there many ways and oils, but it can be cultural. You may find that Lomi Lomi massage in Hawaii, Samoan, Shiatsu, Thai or even Chinese massage suits your needs. If not, then maybe try Swedish Massage, which, incidentally in Sweden is known as classical massage.
Whatever method of massage you choose, whatever ails you, a massage can help. It can help relieve pain, anxiety, depression and a variety of diseases. There is no way to blind-test massage therapy, as the person being tested is going to be touched, and we cannot deny that the sense of touch is very therapeutic by itself. Be sure to try it out and find what type of massage works best for you!
