There is not much difference in the concept of massage and massage therapy. When a layman uses the touch, pressing and kneading actions to bring about a feeling of lightness and happiness in the receiver, he is practising the art of massage. But, when the same techniques are used in a scientific manner, taking into account the muscle locations, stress points and other anatomical considerations, it becomes massage therapy.
Massage Therapy: History of Massage Therapy
General Time Line
The information in this timeline is from many sources, mainly massage textbooks, massage books and massage school manuals. There are many contradictions in the various sources and the dates can only be taken as approximates in many cases.
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Massage Therapy: Massage and Health Benefits
Massage is a holistic therapy. It has effect on both body and mind. Massage increases the circulation of blood and flow of lymph. The direct mechanical effect to rhythmically applied manual pressure and movement used in massage can dramatically increase the rate of blood flow. Also, the stimulation of nerve receptors causes the blood vessels (by reflex action) to dilate, which also facilitates blood flow. This has profound influence on one’s health.
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Massage Therapy: Types of Massage
From what began as a soothing touch and comfort giving action, massage has developed into a major stream of therapy. There are several kinds of massage strokes, which are practised as per the requirement of the situation.
Massage Therapy: Using Massage for Pain Control
Massage is a very effective technique for controlling pain.
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Massage Therapy: When Should You Seek Clinical Massage Therapy?
If you suffer from any of the following disorders, you may benefit by clinical massage:
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Massage Therapy: The Stages of Massage Healing and Massage Precautions
When you accept that massage can heal the body, it helps of understand how healing take, place. Massage can have immediate benefits for the healthy individuals but if a person is ill, recovery takes time. Massage therapists have identified four stages in the healing process.
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Massage Therapy: How can Massage Benefit Your Infant’s Sleep?
Getting a baby to sleep so they can get a good night’s rest is often a new parents’ greatest challenge. There has been a lot of research done on massage with hospitalised babies, who are generally small and vulnerable. Research has established that hospitalised babies grow faster if they are massaged correctly. This involves using oil and a firm yet gentle stroking (light, tickling touch isn’t recommended).
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Massage Therapy: The Benefits of Baby Massage
Baby Massage in Different Countries
In the Eastern countries the massage ritual for babies and infants occupies a very important place. The loving massage given to the baby by the mother with her own hands is the most fulfilling form nurturing that creates a special bonding between the two. Massage provides so many benefits. It aids digestion, relieves colic, eases tension, regulates breathing, and spurs growth. It offers the infant not just the comfort and stimulus of touch, but a full range of enriching sensual experiences … eye contact, a soothing voice, a familiar scent.
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Massage Therapy: How to Give a Head Massage?
The Origins of Indian Head Massage
Originating in the East more than one thousand years ago, Indian Head Massage was originally developed as a grooming technique by women who used it to strengthen and improve the fullness of the hair. This was achieved by stimulating the pressure points on the scalp. It was particularly popular with women of fashion who wanted to enhance their appearance. The technique, in many senses, became part of everyday life and was practised on young an old alike. It became a tradition that was handed down through the generations.
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