HISTORY
The use of ointments and herbs to massage the human body was indicated by archaeological discoveries to have started since the prehistoric age. Chinese literature records that massage was used for healing as far back as 3000 B.C. Hindu writing dating from 1800 indicates that massage was used for weight reduction and to aid sleep, relaxation, and combating fatigue. Around 300 B.C. the Greeks followed by the Romans started to make use of massage, coupling it with exercise as a regime for fitness. The art of message therapy gained great prestige during the Renaissance period.
BENEFITS
Some of massages use are to increase the circulation to an area like a muscle or a joint; to reduce pain; to relax muscles; to relax the recipient; to increase the circulation away from an area and assist drainage of excess fluid; to introduce essential oils into the skin.
It is our instinct and nature to "stroke" someone to comfort them or make them feel better. It is also natural and involuntary for the person receiving the stroking to relax and feel better. Psychologically receiving a massage gives the recipient a feeling of being cared for and thus relaxation is induced. Relaxing the body and the mind in turn stimulates the autonomic nervous system towards achieving optimum health by enhancing bodily functions. Digestion improves, blood pressure reduces, painkilling chemicals are released, and hormone action is balanced. Massage can have a great influence on the autonomic nervous system through its soothing effect on the nerve endings in the skin and the calming of the whole body. After relaxation, enhancing the general circulation of the body is the next most important function of massaging. The movements of massage help to push blood along the veins. Some strokes also improve the circulation along the arterioles and capillaries to areas like skin, hands, and the feet.
HOW DOES MASSAGE WORK?
Most massage involves the direct contact of hands on the skin. Underneath the skin lies a layer of tissue containing nerves, arteries, veins, lymph vessels, and varying amounts of water and fat. The next layer, the muscle layer, covers almost the whole body. It is safe to massage all areas covered by muscle since muscles can take a large amount of pressure and stretching. It is best to avoid bony areas or the abdomen and the neck. For the muscles, massage increases the local circulation, helps to get rid of waste products in the tissues, reduces spasm and tension, and tones up muscle tone.
Message techniques
A stroke or movement refers to the path or route the hands travel in a massage technique. Massage strokes or movements are usually repeated several times, the number being dictated by what the giver and the recipient feel is sufficient. As a guide, each massage stroke is carried out at least six times or for a few minutes. Rhythm sets the pace and determines what effect the technique is likely to have. With all massage techniques it is important to check with the recipient because what rhythm you may find relaxing may not be for the person. There are three general rhythms used for different purposes. Slow strokes are done with the purpose of relaxation. Increasing the speed of the stroke to a medium slow stimulates the circulation to the area. Brisk movement can be used if you want to warm the muscles in preparation for athletic activity or generally for an invigorating effect. Pressure needs to be constantly adjusted to the area being massed. Hard pressure can not be misused to force a muscle to relax. Pressure may be increased as long as the muscle is giving in to it gradually and not resisting.
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