Massage is one of the oldest healing techniques which dates back to 3000 years ago. Hindus and Persians used it for many ailments while Hippocrates recommended people to use rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems.
In the modern days, massage therapy is one of the physical rehabilitation programs which has shown benefits in managing chronic conditions including low back, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, immunity suppression, infertility, smoking cessation, depression and so much more.
No one will deny the usefulness of massage in relieving stress and tension which is a common thing in everyday life. At the art of living retreat center, for example, you will find enhanced massage techniques being used to help people get rid of various pains and relieve them of pain.
There are different types of massages depending on the therapy. The techniques used in massage include stroking, kneading, tapping, friction, vibration, pressure to the muscles, passive or active movement and any other technique used to affect the energetic system of the body. Oils, powder or lotions are normally used to lower friction on the skin.
Massaging does not include diagnosis, prescription, manipulation, nor adjustments of the human skeletal structure. It also does not include any other service, procedure or therapy which requires a license to practice orthopedics, physical therapy, podiatry, chiropractic, osteopathy, acupuncture, psychotherapy and any other thing in the medical field.
Benefits of massage
No matter what we are looking for, massage is great in offering laxity, management of stress and pain or injury rehabilitation. Among many other benefits are;
- Shortens and eases labor for the expectant mothers and shorten their maternity stay
- Improves the immunity by stimulating lymph flow
- Exercise and stretch weak muscles.
- Increase joint flexibility
- Reduces depression and anxiety
- Promote tissue regeneration
- Ease medication dependence
- Help athletes recover from strenuous exercise
- Relieve migraine pain
- Reduce post-surgery swelling
- Reduce spasms and cramping
- Relax and soften injured muscles
- Release endorphins
Hospitals are now embracing massage activities and have now been integrated as part of Medicare and neonatal intensive care units. They are using massaging to treat post-surgery or pain patients as part of their recovery process. Research has shown that after a massage;
- People living with Arthritis feel lesser pain and less stiffness pain
- Asthmatic infants show better pulmonary action
- Patients with burn injuries report reduced pain and anxiety
- High blood pressure patients show lower diastolic blood pressure
- Preterm infants have improved weight gain
A powerful tool against stress
Massage without any doubt can help manage stress. It eliminates pressure and anxiety together in this world full of stress. When massaging is used in a stressed person, one gets the following effects
- Decreased anxiety
- Enhanced quality of sleep
- Greater energy
- Improved concentration
- Increased circulation
- Reduced fatigue
You need to increase the benefits of massaging by going for it frequently. Look for good massaging spas for daily massaging so that you get the best in the world. Budget your money and time for massaging at consistent intervals. This is going to be your biggest investment in health. Also, you need to work and relate with your practitioner to come up with a treatment schedule that will meet your needs.
If you need more information, check out this website for some excellent advice. Health benefits already mentioned aside, massage is one of the single most beneficial uses of your time for your well being. It stimulates your mental capacities and allows you to run at your most optimum levels!