Masssage

The Ancient Science of Massage

Massage is the traditional art of applying pressure over the muscles of the body to release knots, tension and stress in muscle fibres. It is one of the oldest health care practices, and has been recommended in western medicine from the time of Hippocrates, the 'father of medicine'. The use of touch to give comfort to a friend, or to relieve aching muscles, is something we have used instinctively throughout history. In ancient Greece and Rome, massage was the main source of healing, and was recommended for the treatment of illness, injury and fatigue. Nowadays, there are many different types of massage used to treat a variety of muscular and soft tissue disorders, or simply to reduce stress and tension and so promote relaxation.

The real benefits

Massage has been shown to be helpful in many conditions. Of course, each therapy will also have its own list of benefits. The following explains some of the major ways in which massage can help the body to repair itself:

¨ Breaks up muscle adhesions by stretching and brings a good supply of oxygenated blood to the area.

¨ Increases heat to an area to help relax and decrease muscle spasm and tightness. This will help to return a full range of movement to an area.

¨ Increases the circulation, helping to remove toxins and increase nutrients and oxygen to the body.

¨ Depending on the type of massage, it can have a relaxing effect on the central nervous system, helping to alleviate stress.

¨ By decreasing stress, massage helps to aid the body's defence mechanisms.

¨ Can help to break down scar tissue and adhesions.

¨ By improving blood flow and relaxing the nervous system, massage can help improve digestion and bowel movements.

¨ Often helps to reduce migraines and headaches.