Next to the good old ‘drink hot water’ advice that your mom gives you whenever you tell her you’re not feeling well, there’s the ‘go for a massage lah’ phrase that even your grandparents may suggest.
Before you dismiss the overused advice with a ‘pass,’ hold that tongue! There might be more truth than we actually think, and we’re here to explain it.
Historical Uses of Massage Therapy
Turns out, massages have been around for 5000 years and were used to aid physiological conditions. Medical research has proven claims of massages reducing pain intensity, relieving muscle tension, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, as well as improving symptoms of anxiety, fibromyalgia, and osteoarthritis.
Health Benefits of Massages
Massages allow one to reap health benefits without the need of a medical professional’s prescription.
- Relieve stress, anxiety, and tension.
- Enhance joint flexibility and fluidity.
- Manage pain effectively.
- Support the nervous system.
- Boost the immune system response.
- Enhance the lymphatic system.
- Improve sleep quality.
- Enhance the quality of pregnancy.
Types of Massages and Their Target Areas
Massage therapy involves a manual manipulation (pressing, rubbing, or kneading) of soft tissue in the body, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue. Different types of massages aid in different bodily issues.
- Aromatherapy Massage
Aromatherapy massage combines soft, gentle pressure with essential oils, focusing on the back, shoulders, and head, while producing an emotional healing component.
- Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massages relieve soreness, muscle pain, injury, and imbalance using slow strokes and deep finger pressures.
- Reflexology
Reflexology aids in relaxation and restoration of energy levels by focusing on pressure points of the feet, hands, and ears.
- Thai Massage
Thai massage is performed with firm pressure to the body, while engaging in a sequence of stretch-related movements to release pain and improve circulation.
At the end of the day, the art of massage is a historically-proven practice that aids in physiological conditions. There are various massage techniques target different bodily concerns.
Sources: BBC Science Focus, Health Digest, Academy of Massage Therapy & Bodyworks, Healthline
