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 MASSAGE THERAPY

What is it?
DEFINITION AND EXPLANATION OF MASSAGE THERAPY
Massage therapy is the umbrella term referring to a variety of touch techniques specifically designed to relax, invigorate, detoxify, and oxygenate the muscles as well as facilitate the flow of blood toward the heart.  There are more than 250 variations of massage and bodywork therapies.  

"Swedish massage" is the foundation for many different styles of massage, and is generally used to refer to a whole body relaxation-oriented massage.  Most massage therapy training is based in traditional Swedish massage therapy and then can be supplemented by other massage or bodywork modalities.  Many massage therapists train in and utilize multiple techniques.  One may also see the term "therapeutic massage" which can simply refers to massage or bodywork that goes beyond simple relaxation and is therapeutic in nature, possibly targeting muscle tightness or discomfort alleviation, injury rehabilitation, the decrease of uncomfortability of ailments, and/or pain relief techniques. 

What is it used for?
CONDITIONS MASSAGE THERAPY MAY HELP
Skillfully practiced massage therapy is meant to feel good, relaxing, and invigorating. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands, and circulation, while promoting health and well-being.  People may receive massage therapy for enjoyment, or to help many different health conditions, including:

- Asthma
- Back Pain
- Circulatory and respiratory problems
- Headaches and migraines
- Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis
- Muscle and related conditions such as spasms, strains and sprains
- PMS
- Post-injury and post surgical rehabilitation
- Repetitive strain injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Stress relief and stress-related conditions
- Weight gain in premature infants

Where did it come from?
HISTORY OF MASSAGE THERAPY
The practice of using touch as a healing method derives from customs and techniques rooted in ancient history. Civilizations in the East and West found that natural healing and massage could heal injuries, relieve pain, prevent and cure illnesses. What's more, it helped reduce stress and produce deep relaxation.

Massage therapy began as a sacred system of natural healing. However, cultural shifts rendered it a disreputable form of indulgence for extensive periods of history. Enduring these turns, massage has experienced resurgence in modern times. Today, massage therapy stands as a highly respected holistic healing method practiced across the world.

Influences from different cultures include:

EGYPT -- Egyptian tomb paintings show people being massaged.

CHINA  --  A Chinese medical book from 2700 B.C., "The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine," recommends 'breathing exercises, massage of skin and flesh, and exercises of hands and feet" as the appropriate treatment for complete paralysis, chills, and fever."

GREECE AND ROME --  Massage therapy was one of the principal methods of relieving pain for Greek and Roman physicians. Julius Caesar reportedly received a daily massage to treat neuralgia. "The physician must be experienced in many things," wrote Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, in the 5th century B. C., "but assuredly in rubbing … for rubbing can bind a joint that is too loose, and loosen a joint that is too rigid."

INDIA -- Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, places great emphasis on the therapeutic benefits of massage with aromatic oils and spices. It is practiced very widely in India. 

JAPAN -- Starting around 1000 BCE, Japanese monks studying Buddhism in China observed the healing methods of traditional Chinese medicine, including massage therapy. Japan soon began to import and customize Chinese massage techniques, giving rise to traditional Japanese massage or "anma," which grew into Shiatsu, a form of finger acupressure on specific energy meridians.
 
EUROPE – Techniques of Swedish massage were developed by Swedish doctor, poet, and educator  Per Henrik Ling in the early 1800s. His system was based on a study of gymnastics and physiology, and on techniques borrowed from China, Egypt, Greece, and Rome.  It is characterized by a firm but gentle pressure that improves the circulation, eases muscle aches and tension, improves flexibility and encourages relaxation. 

What is it based on?
THEORY OF MASSAGE THERAPY
Physically, massage therapy primarily impacts the muscular, nervous, and circulatory systems. It is detoxifying as it speeds the release of lactic acid, uric acid and other metabolic wastes from tissues. It increases circulation of blood and lymph without increasing the load on the heart. It helps keep connective tissue pliable, stimulates the skin, and simultaneously soothes and invigorates the nervous system.  

Massage therapy can also has a positive emotional impact on the recipient and help manage stress. Experts estimate that upwards of 90% of disease is stress related. And perhaps nothing ages us faster, internally and externally, than high stress. This can lead to:

·    Decreased anxiety
·    Enhanced sleep quality
·    Greater energy
·    Improved concentration
·    Increased circulation
·    Reduced fatigue

Studies have shown that clients often report a sense of perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance bodywork provides can often be just as vital and valuable as the more tangible physical benefits. 

How is it done?
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A MASSAGE THERAPY SESSION
Massage therapy is offered in many diverse settings including massage therapy clinics, natural healing clinics, chiropractor’s offices, medical offices, luxury spas and hair salons, and in corporate settings. The client usually fills out a health questionnaire before their first appointment, and many therapists keep a record of each session.  The room is generally set up to be comfortable and warm with a specially designed massage table for the client, with appropriate sheets or blankets for draping.  Relaxing music is often played. Sessions typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the reason for the visit and style of massage. 

Most massage and bodywork techniques are traditionally performed with the client unclothed; however, it is entirely up to the client's comfort level. Clients generally remained covered with a drape except for the area where the therapist is working.

Massage therapy employs a combination of five different movements:

* long, gliding strokes
* kneading of individual muscles
* friction
* hacking or tapping
* vibration

The therapist generally uses massage oil or cream to facilitate long, smooth strokes over the body and limbs.  Generally, a full body massage entails work on the back, the limbs, hands and feet, scalp, face and possibly the abdomen.  

Who does it?
PRACTITIONERS OF MASSAGE THERAPY
Massage therapists' requirements vary state by state and are overseen by different agencies such as Health and Human Services, medical boards, and professional practices registries. The amount of hours of education requirements also vary by state.  Generally massage therapists have successfully completed between 250 and 1,000 hours of coursework and passed an examination to get either licensed, certified, or registered.  Most states also require a certain number of continuing education to retain their ability to practice.