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The word massage comes from the Latin word massa"of kneading". These days, however, it has come to imply the soothing of the skin by utilizing smooth and tight strokes on the body. A number of people in many cultures like receiving massage as part of their standard medical care. Massage therapy is a practice that dates back to Roman times, when ancient Greek and Egyptian physicians developed methods of health care which were affected by the massage techniques of the ancients.

Massage therapy is often confused with manual lymph drainage, that's the process of draining waste products and stimulating tissue regeneration. The objective of lymph drainage would be to get rid of excess fluids drain away dead cells. However, massage techniques have developed a more relaxing effect by manipulating the nervous system, leading to increased relaxation and a state of profound peace. This is the theory of the effect of massage to the nervous system, and while massage may be used as a type of manual lymph drainage, its true rejuvenating power comes from using massage techniques that are intended to stimulate the whole body.

Many massage techniques employ the use of massage or pressure as a way of stimulating the muscles and soft tissues. This technique is usually known as rolling or kneading. Pressure is applied to specific regions of the body to induce the blood to flow toward the heart and return to the heart through coronary arteries. Stress can also be applied to the subcutaneous glands to excite them. Both of these kinds of massage are often done on separate occasions, one before the other.

The kneading massage is often used on the face, shoulders, thighs, stomach, back, and neck. When applying this massage technique, the masseuse uses his hands or a gloved hand to gently manipulate a joint in the bone. More helpful hints The pressure exerted causes the joint to move slightly, thus causing a small shock to the bone. This slight jolt causes a temporary paralysis of the joint. The patient may feel some pain for a short time then, but the paralysis doesn't last for long.

Another technique called effleurage uses long, gliding strokes on the skin. The masseuse applies sustained pressure along the skin, which feels like a soft breeze flowing across the body. Effleurage has a relaxing effect on the entire body, and it's often used to alleviate muscle tension. The strokes can be directed at specific areas such as the shoulders or neck. Effleurage has also been used as a treatment for injuries, spasms, and cramps.

Swedish massage is another popular technique. Its style of massage is very light, and it uses smooth, circular motions that massage both tendons and muscles. A massage therapist spends a few minutes on each part of the body when asking the patient to relax.

Deep tissue massage is an advanced type of massage that goes into the deeper layers of the muscles and tissues. Unlike a Swedish massage, the practitioner applies sustained pressure to deeper layers of muscle tissue. Because deep tissue massage is more debilitating than Swedish massage, its use is reserved for people that are extremely nervous or suffering from some type of injury. This form of massage must be carried out by a licensed massage therapist. Usually the massage therapist will begin with soft stretches and move to deeper techniques as the customer's comfort level increases.

Massage therapy is safe for most people, although those with pre-existing health conditions should consult their physician before engaging in this sort of therapy. When you have any questions regarding massage or if this treatment would be beneficial in improving your health, contact your family doctor. Massage therapy has offered countless benefits for people who have used it. Give it a go and reap the benefits.




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