Massage Therapy For A Better Life

Massage was written about by several ancient civilizations including Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, Egypt, Japan, India, and China. In the Book of Esther within the Bible, there is a possible reference documenting daily beauty "treatments" involving oil of myrrh, used by the wives of Xerxes. Hippocrates wrote of massage in 460 BC, referring to it as "rubbing." In Romania, massage was traditionally used to treat several illnesses. The method involved being trodden by a tame bear, not being treated by a professional massage therapist.

The practice has come far since these days, with Chinese massage being a synthesis of traditional practices and western ideas. In China, massage is considered an important component of primary health care and is taught in medical and hospital schooling. By the mid 19th century, massage was increasing in popularity in the U.S. Until the 1970s, nurses used massage to help patients sleep and to ease their pain.

Massage is now also used to treat athletes and is sometimes requested by organizations and businesses for the relief of work-induced stress. Specialized chairs and tables are commonly used, with equipment like a Vichy shower and dry-water massage bed required less frequently. Different types of oil are incorporated to achieve different purposes and salts may be added to remove dry skin. When muscle relaxation is required, heat rocks are utilized.

Avalon massage practitioners work in various recreational and medical environments. Some travel to businesses or private residences to provide therapy. Acupressure, deep tissue, reflexology, Shiatsu, Swedish, and traditional Chinese massage are several of the most popular methods used by massage therapists. Each involves a different style and force of manipulation designed to achieve a different purpose. Clients should discuss their reasons for needing a massage so the practitioner can determine the most effective treatment.