Health and Fitness

What is massage therapy?

Massage therapy, commonly known as massage includes a group of practices and techniques to reduce the tension from the mind and the stress from the body. The therapy improves blood circulation and brings in relaxation. It involves a lot of manipulation of the muscles and soft tissues.

Massage therapists use their hands, fingers and sometimes forearms, elbows or feet for more pressure. Some massages are soft and gentle while others are intense.

History of massage therapy

Massage therapy is in use for thousand of years. Ancient writings from China, Egypt, Japan, Rome and others show references to massage therapy. Massage therapy became popular in the US during 1800s.

Different type of massages

There are around 80 varieties of massages. Some are very gentle like the Swedish massage and is used to increase blood circulation, release muscle tension and bring relaxation.

The deep tissue massage and the trigger point massage are less gentle and are very intense. They can sometimes be uncomfortable too. But in that case you should let the therapists know about your discomfort.

The best way to relax and pamper your body is through self-massage. You can massage your feet, hand or neck even while doing work.

Uses of massage

People generally use massage to relieve the pain from the body. It also releases the muscles and improves blood circulation.

Who is a massage therapist?

A massage therapist is one who provides massage therapy to people. Massage therapy can be learned in massage therapy schools or training programs. There are about 1300 massage therapy schools and colleges in the US. Therapists need to pass the national certification exam in order to practice.

Massage therapists plays a very important role in treating patients. Massage has been used as Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) to treat many specific diseases and ailments.