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Return To Massage Article Archive   Essential Massage Facts By Alan Pierce A massage is a traditional form of therapy in which muscles and other soft tissues of the body are manipulated to improve health and well-being. Variants of massage range from tissues to deeper manual techniques. Massage was practiced as a healing therapy for centuries in virtually every culture thorough the world. It helps to relieve muscle tension, reduce stress, and evoke feelings of calmness. Although massage affects the body as a whole, it particularly influences the activity of the musculoskeletal, circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems. History of the massage dates back over 4000 years, to traditional Chinese medicine. In 19th century a form of massage called ,,Swedish' was introduced. Although massage was rather unpopular in the 20th century, in 1970 there begun a renaissance of this form of natural therapy. How does a massage works? During massaging, the electrical nerve signals are transmitted thorough entire body, which helps to stimulate circulation and clear waste products as well as boosts the activity of immune system as well as reducing pain and tension, giving overall calming effect. By increasing release of endorphins and reducing the level of stress hormones massage also enhance general sense of well-beings. What is massage good for? Massage is frequently used to support healing, boost energy, shorten recovery time after an injury, as well as a method to enhance relaxation, by melting away stress. Massage relieves effectively chronic pains (perhaps more efficiently than any other known method, including pharmaceutical, and other traditional, like acupuncture). Mothers and newborns also benefit from massage, making mother-child bond stronger. Almost in any treatment massage can be introduced as support for conventional therapy. For example, it is often used in treatment of autism, cerebral palsy, rheumatoid arthritis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Who should avoid massage? Generally, massage should be avoided by people with congestive heart failure, infection of superficial veins, soft tissues and several other health problems. Also, pregnant women should be cautious (and choose a specially trained therapist). In any case of doubt if you can have a massage, consult your doctor first, who should be final judge in this matter. About the Author: Alan Pierce is an experienced massage practitioner and expert on several types of massage techniques. His goal is to educate people on the benefits and healing effects of the massage therapy. Visit Alans site http://www.smilingback.com to find out more about all aspects of this relaxing healing technique. keywords: Massage | Massage Therapy | Spa Body Massage Oil

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