Massage therapy along with bodywork is widely accepted to be among the oldest of all treatments utilized by man. Ancient Chinese texts dating back as far as 2,700 BC have recorded its practice. Egyptians have been credited with the creation of reflexology around 2,500 BC. Hindus and Persians also used various forms of bodywork for different ailments. Even Hippocrates wrote several papers supporting the use of friction and rubbing for circulatory and joint problems. Today, massage is a tried and true component to several physical rehabilitation programs and has been proven beneficial to multiple chronic ailments such as lower back pain, bursitis and arthritis. Massage therapy can also help with relieving the tension and stress of everyday living.
HOW CAN MASSAGE OR BODYWORK BENEFIT ME?
Massage therapy provides relief to individuals from all walks of life. Be it the weekend warrior, competitive athletes, at home gardeners or the typical executive constantly struggling to tread water in today’s economy. Waitresses, secretaries and laborers, everyone feels the need for a massage at some point in their lives. The senior population as well truly benefits from massage therapy, as it can enhance circulation and flexibility. Even the bedridden can be helped in this regard. However, there are some instances where massage therapy is not recommended. Your therapist will ask you for any information regarding your specific health conditions and anything you may be dealing with in order to determine whether or not bodywork is contraindicated. In certain cases, the therapist may request your doctor’s permission in order to provide any services.
FINDING A QUALIFIED PRACTITIONER
Your massage therapy or bodywork services should always be provided by a trained professional who has received the appropriate certification. Don’t hesitate to ask your therapist about their training, background, skills or experience.
IT’S TIME TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
Care of one’s body deserves a spot be at the top of everyone’s priority list. People will look and feel better if they take the necessary steps in regards to health and nutrition. Stress and tension relief on it’s own improves vitality and your state of mind. Massage therapy and bodywork can play an important role in your life.
MASSAGE THERAPY FOR EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS AND PAIN
With many chronic conditions, massage therapy can help heal and relieve pain. Emotional problems as with physical conditions may also be coaxed into self-healing through massage. Frequently this helps with the need to take over the counter medications, which unnecessarily tax the kidneys, liver and other vital organs.