By: Ivana Dragica |
The benefits of massage |
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An ancient Indian proverb says that diseases do not come near to the people that are massaged every day.
Massage is one of the most recognized methods of relaxation and healing.
The word massage comes from the Arabic massa, meaning touch.
Massage encompasses a number of different techniques, but it is based on pressure, tapping, stretching and smoothing of muscles and connective tissues using varying intensity.
The most famous are the Swedish, sports, shiatsu, aromatherapeutic and ayurvedic massage.
A brief history of massage
Massage is probably the oldest form of healing. It was used in all historical periods by all peoples.
Ancient Chinese, Indian and Egyptian manuscripts mention that the massage was used for preventing and treating illnesses and injuries.
In Greece and Rome massage was used after sports activities, to faster recovery from illness, after bathing and for different ailments like asthma, digestive disorders and even infertility.
Massage is an integral part of Ayurveda. Ayurvedic massage involves the use of various herbs, spices and essential oils.
In Europe, Swede Per Henrik Ling, the inventor of the Swedish massage, had a major influence on popular massages. Today, the Swedish massage is offered in wellness centers and massage parlors all over the world, and many other types of massage techniques have their roots in the Swedish massage.
It is now generally accepted that massage has great therapeutic value. Thousands of people around the world use it as an excellent way to preserve their health and supplement treatment.
Effects of massage
Massage has a strong effect on health and mood, especially if practiced regularly.
It is suitable for all ages, and you can even massage yourself. To achieve the desired effect, you do not have to massage the entire body.
Studies show that as many as ninety percent of disease is due to stress. Massage is a great way to get rid of stress, and with the use of relaxing essential oils effect may be even better.
Massage relaxes the body mentally and physically. If you are under stress, treat yourself to a massage - it will surely provide relief. Select the type of massage that suits you best.
Massage is an excellent solution for problems with insomnia. With regular use it enhances low and quality sleep. It is best to do a full body massage, but if you do not have sufficient time, foot or back massage will sufficient.
Massage is extremely useful to heart patients because it relaxes, lowers blood pressure, and also can improve appetite and mood.
Sports massage relieves muscle spasms and inflammation caused by physical activities, improves endurance and agility. Rub the muscles before exercise to achieve the best effect. Massage after exercise helps against fatigue and exhaustion.
Massage also helps with weight loss. It stimulates circulation and digestion, speeds up the elimination of toxins, stimulates the metabolism and lymphatic system, promotes better posture, and strengthens the will and has excellent effect on the skin.
Anti Cellulite massage strengthens skin tone, improves circulation and accelerates the loss of fat cells in critical locations.
Massage is useful for:
- back pain
- rheumatism and arthritis
- stress and insomnia
- headaches and migraines
- muscle inflammation
- depression and stress
- cellulite and obesity
- fatigue and exhaustion
- weakened immunity
- heart diseases
Application of essential oils in massage
Vegetable and essential oils are an integral part of the equipment of each masseur. It gives a new dimension to a massage, and their scents can have relaxing or stimulating effect.
Essential oils should always be diluted in base oil, carefully opened and kept in a cool, dark place.
Essential oils and their effects:
Bergamot - acts as a natural antiseptic, helps with depression and acne. This oil is photo-toxic, which means that after a massage with this oil you should not expose your skin to the sun.
Eucalyptus - a natural antiseptic, highly stimulating, helps with coughs, colds and pain.
Chamomile - soothing, antidepressant, helps with headaches, insect and mosquito bites.
Lavender - a natural antiseptic and analgesic, soothing, helps with headaches and insomnia, improves circulation.
Neroli - soothing, natural aphrodisiac, helps with anxiety and insomnia, nourishes dry skin.
Rosemary - stimulating effect, improves memory, relieves rheumatic pains. It is ideal for sports massage.
Ylang-Ylang - has antidepressant and calming effect, natural antiseptic and aphrodisiac, it is recommended for the care of oily and sensitive skin.
Rose - a natural antiseptic, has soothing and antidepressant effect.
Tea tree - useful against fungi and bacteria, soothing effect.
The power of touch is beneficial. Treat yourself to a massage or cheer up your loved ones with a good massage. Massage is a gift that effects person that receives it, but also a person that gives it.
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