29 August 2007
Therapeutic Back Massage
Surely It feels really good to have your back rubbed, however the art and science of massage is far more reaching. Massage may be relatively new in the western world, but it has been part of the healing and wellness tradition of many eastern cultures for hundreds of years. This article will quickly examine the history and health benefits of having regular therapeutic back massages.
Even the names of common massage styles reflect that their heritage is not based in North America but in much older civilizations, such as Sweden, India, China, Thailand, Japan and Hawaii. Of course there are also more modern modes of bodywork that were developed more recently, based on the self-actualization movement with roots in California in the early 1960s.
Regardless of the style of massage being practiced, the benefits derived from the bodywork are quite similar. One of the primary benefits of massage is relaxation and the reduction of the harmful effects of stress on the body. Today’s stressful world causes harm both emotionally and physically. Our hectic pace and the problems of dealing with both career and family take an emotional toll. But environmental pollution also puts physical toxins into the body. Fortunately, massage works to help in both of these areas.
The entire massage process relaxes the body, mind and spirit. Not only are sore muscles soothed and aching joints relieved, but also the entire atmosphere of a good massage session is geared toward relaxation. The lights are dimmed. There may be candles burning softly. Often there is relaxing music, sometimes accompanied by nature sounds such as distant birdcalls or the gentle flow of water. All of these elements assist in creating a totally relaxing environment.
On a physical level, massage therapy increases circulation of blood through the muscles, assisting in removing accumulated toxins. One study found that massage could lower the risk of breast cancer in women. It revealed that women who wear tight-fitting underwear are more at risk for cancer because the circulation in their breasts is restricted. But when they massage their breasts on a regular basis, circulation improves and environmental carcinogens can better be removed.
A lesser-known benefit of massage, not specifically supported by western science, it improves the flow of energy throughout the body. It is believed in the traditional medicines of China and India that energy flows through meridian lines all across the human body. Stress can restrict your energy flow. A full body massage helps clear the blockages and allows your energy to move freely again.
Massage has grown to be a much more important element of modern culture. However, that not everyone who calls themselves a massage practitioner is licensed or certified. Therefore it is advisable to find out beforehand what massage training and certification they actually have, to ensure you have an enjoyable and therapeutic back massage.