Massage Therapy: History and Forms

"Reflexology is an energy-based massage therapystretching techniques at the sites of these
that is most commonly administered to the solesacupressure points of the body.  Also based on
of the feet; however, it is also administered toenergy healing, Tuina is based on the philosophy
the hands, ears, and body." that these acupressure points correlate to organ
When we take a walk back in history, wesystems and parts of the body; and is believed to
discover that massage therapy has been aroundhelp promote self-healing mechanisms.
since the time before Christ.  Finding itsOf course there are several other massage
origins throughout many ancient civilizations,therapy modalities available today. To find out
bodywork therapies in the United Stateswhich massage technique is best for you, you
first gained recognition in the mid 19th century. should check with your local certified massage
Some massage therapy modalities, like Ayurvedictherapist who can explain the different techniques
Abhyanga massage, dates back thousands ofthat she uses in her practice.  As with most
years to India, and is administered by one orpractitioners, massage therapists must meet
paired therapists.  This particular body treatmentstate educational requirements and/or licensure
integrates heated herbal oils, with gentle kneadingprior to practicing the healing art.  While there are
and pressure techniques.  Sometimes, the feetmany massage therapists, it is important to note
are used for the therapy, like the Hawaiianthat no two massage practitioners are alike. 
massage technique of Lomi Lomi.Where one may be certified in Swedish massage,
Craniosacral therapy, sometimes used as part ofdeep tissue and sports massage; more advanced
an osteopathic doctor's health treatment,therapists may offer additional services in
is commonly referred to as a unique form ofacupressure/Shiatsu, hot stone massage,
massage therapy. A hands-on treatment involvingneuromuscular therapy, and myofascial release,
light touch to assist hydraulic forces within theamong others.
natural cranial sacral system, craniosacral therapyIf you (or someone you know) are interested
is known to free tension from the spinal cord, andin finding educational programs in massage
optimizes spinal fluid flow. therapy, let professional training within
Deep tissue technique is one of the morefast-growing industries like massotherapy,
common forms of massage therapy, and iscosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki,
typically taught in most somatic educationand others get you started!
programs.  This specific massageExplore massage therapy near you.
modality involves a deeper pressureMassage Therapy: History and Forms
application using the fingers, knuckles, or elbow.© Copyright 2007
Reflexology is an energy-based massage therapyThe CollegeBound Network
that is most commonly administered to the solesAll Rights Reserved
of the feet; however, it is also administered toResource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd - Freelance
the hands, ears, and body.  Facilitating pressureWriter and Web Consultant for
points on the soles of the feet, reflexology is aHolisticJunction.com, in association with -
therapy with the belief that specific pressureEducational Resources for Massage Therapy,
points of the feet correspond to parts of theNatural Health Schools, and other Healing
body that can aid in relieving pain and stress toArts Programs.
these parts.NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of
Chinese medical massage therapy, also known ascharge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright
Tuina, is similar to acupressure; and isand Author Resource Box are included; and ALL
administered through kneading, pushing, andHyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.