2008
Want to Stay Healthy? HAVE A MASSAGE!
Posted by Admin in Uncategorized
Touch and Massage
Touch is the most natural form of communication. Touch is nurturing, comforting and healing. When we express love or caring we hug and hold each other. When we are upset emotionally, we want to be held. When we are hurt physically, our natural instinct is to hold or rub the area in pain. Touch transcends words; it comforts and relaxes both our physical and emotional bodies. Touch is basic to survival.
What is MASSAGE?
Massage is a holistic therapy that uses touch as a means to bring balance to the body. Releasing tension and toxins built up in the muscle tissue enables the body to become more relaxed and function more efficiently. Using pressure created through specific sequences, massage releases muscle tension while relaxing the mind.
The History of Massage
The word massage has its roots in many different languages in Latin Massa means to touch or knead; in Greek Massein means to knead; in Sanskrit Makeh means to press; in Arabic Mass means to feel or touch; and in French Masser means to rub.
We can find evidence of the use of massage deeply rooted in Eastern practice. The Chinese are generally credited with creating the first form of massage in 3000 BC. They used specific sequences for relaxation and health. In the sixth century, the Japanese started to manipulate energy within the body. This has developed into Shiatsu. Shiatsu uses pressure on specific points in the body to maintain optimum health. India, also, has a long history of massage as part of Ayurvedic Medicine, which is still widely popular today. In Ancient Greece massage was integral to health. Hippocrates, a Greek physician and the father of medicine, called Massage anatripsis. He wrote that massage can bind a joint that is too loose and loosen a joint that is too rigid. In ancient Rome gladiators received massages before and after combat. Julius Caesar is said to have received daily massages to treat neuralgia. The most widely known form of massage practiced in the west begun by the Swedish doctor, Per Henrick Ling in the 19th century. He established the Royal Gymnastics Central Institute, with massage as part of the curriculum and called it Swedish Massage. Ling believed in the body’s natural ability to heal itself, He based his system in physiology, gymnastics and techniques borrowed from China, Egypt, Greece and Rome.
The effects of massage
Massage affects us both psychologically and physiologically. Psychologically, it relaxes the mind and body and increases positive and happy feelings. Physiologically it has direct or indirect effect on all the system of the body. The most obvious effect of massage has is in our skin. The skin is a living organ, its dead cells rise to surface and are constantly being replace by new cells underneath. Sliding the hands across the skin during massage removes dead skin cells, helping new cells rise to the surface. This process also brings blood to the surface, increasing color and improving circulation. Massage also improves elasticity in skin by encouraging the natural production of oil called sebum, which helps to lubricate the skin and prevent dryness.
Massage affects the Muscular system in many ways: it breaks down sections of lactic acid, thus increasing the speed of cell functions, breaks down the knots that cause stiffness; and it improves flexibility and range of movement. It improves the Circulatory system by aiding the flow of blood around the body. Massage strokes work in harmony with the body’s natural circulation. Massage helps blood to carry oxygen and nutrients to the organs. Massage can help lower high blood pressure by reducing the tension that causes it.
The lymphatic system removes waste products that cannot be removed through the circulatory system. It is an interesting system because it has no pump to circulate the lymph to circulate around the body. Because massage works in harmony with the direction in which blood flows around the body, it is able to push the lymph towards the lymph nodes, aiding drainage. Massage can also help in the reduction of the swelling cellulite and lumpiness.
Massage has a positive effect on the Respiratory system. When we are relaxed, we can breathe more easily and deeply. Oxygen can be absorbed and carbon dioxide removed in greater volumes. The main muscles involved in respiration, the diaphragm and intercostals muscles are relaxed in a massage, enabling deeper breathing. Massage affects the Urinary system by encouraging waste removal. It activates the kidneys and reduces fluid retention. The Reproductive system can be affected by massage that it can reduce period pains.
The effects on the Nervous system will depend on the type of massage. A stimulating massage will invigorate the nervous system, while a relaxing massage will calm it down. A stimulating massage reduces fatigue and lethargy. Soothing strokes can help ease the nerves of someone who is stressed or tense.
The Skeletal system is affected indirectly. Because the muscles are more relaxed, they cause less undue strain on the bones and joints. Mobility can increase with massage and posture may improve. Massage can relax tight muscles and strengthen loose tissue, thus changing the tensions created on the skeletal system. Massage affects Digestion by helping with both indigestion and constipation. Because massage improves circulation, it speeds up nutrients getting to the cells.
Remember, the benefits of a MASSAGE are numerous and your body will thank you for having one. Make regular massage a priority in your Life for a Healthier tomorrow!
MALATE /PASAY BRANCH
BAGUIO BRANCH
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