Massage is an ancestral art practiced for thousands of years in different cultures around the world. Considered a form of alternative therapy, massage is known for its many benefits, including muscle relaxation, reduction of stress and anxiety, improvement of blood and lymphatic circulation, and stimulation of the immune system. In this blog, we will provide a brief summary of the history of massage, exploring its origins, evolution and current popularity.
Definition of massage
Massage is a manipulation of tissues (by rubbing, caressing, kneading or tapping) with the hand or an instrument, particularly for therapeutic purposes. The word is derived from the Greek “masso”, to knead, and the Arabic “mass”, to press gently.
Origin of massage
The first mentions of massage date back to ancient Egypt, where doctors used massage techniques to treat different conditions. Asian cultures, such as China and India, also have a long tradition of massage. In India, the massage is considered an element crucial part of Ayurveda, a traditional medicine that also uses herbs and a balanced diet. The philosophy of massage in India involves the manipulation of vital points of the body to rebalance vital energy and improve the overall health of the patient.
Evolution of massage
Over time, massage has undergone a number of changes and adaptations in different cultures. In Europe, massage developed as a form of treatment for muscle and joint diseases, while in Japan and Korea, massage techniques were incorporated into the practice of martial arts. There have also been a number of developments in the field of scientific research that have led to a better understanding of how massage works on the body. In general and today we find massage almost everywhere, whether in France, as in Vietnam, in Thailand and even to Hawaii ! Each of course having their own techniques and way of doing things!
Current Popularity of Massage
Nowadays, massage is widely popular across the world. Spas and massage parlors offer massage services to meet the needs of customers. The most common forms of massage include Swedish massage, which uses gliding and pressing movements, and Thai massage, which uses assisted stretching and yoga movements. There are also a variety of specialized massage treatments for specific client needs, such as sports massage for athletes or massage for pregnant women.
Conclusion & Opinion
Massage is an ancient practice that has evolved over time to become a popular form of alternative therapy around the world. Considered an effective method for reducing stress and improving mental and physical well-being, massage is growing in popularity in our modern society. By exploring the history of massage, we can better understand the importance of this therapeutic practice, which will surely continue to exist for centuries to come.
Originally posted 2019-08-27 14:49:41 .