The Healing Massage Therapy

Massage therapy has a long history, and it has been in use for many years. It is referred to in writings from ancient Rome, China, Greece, Arabic nations, India and Japan. In Europe, massage became widely used during the Renaissance, and in the United States it was introduced in the 1850s and became popular among athletes. Various types of massage therapies are used to treat health related problems like sports injuries, to relieve pain, increase relaxation and reduce stress, and to address anxiety and depression.

Massage therapy involves pressing, rubbing and manipulation of the muscles and tissues of the body. Massage therapists generally use their hands and fingers to massage, but sometimes they may also use their forearms and elbow, and in some types of massages they use their feet.

Different Types of Massage Therapy

There are different types of massages and they are:

• Swedish Massage: In Swedish massage, the therapist applies soft, long strokes, kneading strokes, vibration, deep circular movements and tapping strokes, on the muscles. This is combined with joint movements and it can be relaxing and energizing.
• Sports Massage: This is similar to Swedish massage, but some changes are made to meet the requirements of athletes. It promotes flexibility and helps prevent injuries.
• Deep Tissue Massage: Tissue massage is helpful to treat painful spots in the body. It involves slow, deliberate strokes, which focus on muscle layers, tendons and other tissues.
• Shiatsu Massage: In this massage, they use various, rhythmic pressure on specific points.
• Hot Stone Massage: This massage involves the use of warmed stones, which are placed on specific areas, such as acupressure points.

There are also other types of massages like reflexology, Thai massage, pregnancy massage, chair massage, neuromuscular therapy massage, etc.

Various studies suggest that with massage therapy a person can get relief from anxiety, and it reduces blood pressure and the heart rate, and several sessions may help reduce depression and chronic pain. However, massage therapy should not be used as a replacement for medical care and massage therapy should be taken with the consent of a health care provider.

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