Massage 

Massage therapy promotes relaxation and may help ease aches and pains.

Massage is a general term - you may also come across the terms Swedish massage, sports massage and remedial massage. This list is not exhaustive: other forms of massage exist. Each type of massage has its own specific methods.

ORIGINS OF MASSAGE

Because touch is such a primary human need, massage is rooted in human culture. The Chinese were practising massage as long ago as 3000 BC; in India, sacred, ancient Hindu texts include massage in their guidelines for hygiene and well-being. Egyptian tombs contain evidence that shows that massage was also important in their culture.

In the sporting arena, the athletes of ancient Greece used massage before and after competing while the Romans recognised the benefits for injured gladiators. Massage was also important to cultured Roman citizens: after their bathing rituals in hot springs, many Romans liked to round off their visits to the baths with a relaxing massage.

Modern massage therapy is the work of Per Henrik Ling (1776 - 1839). As a result of extensive research and practical experience at his institute, he developed a scientific system known as Swedish massage. It was Ling who introduced the French terms still in use by massage therapists today, such as Effleurage, and Petrissage.

BENEFITS OF MASSAGE

Potential benefits of massage are believed to include:

* Enhanced feelings of relaxation and contentment

* Relief from pain, e.g. headaches, back pain, stress and tension

* The release of endorphins, the body`s feel good hormones

* Improved blood and lymph circulation

* Increased energy levels and feelings of vitality

* Injury recovery

* A general sense of health and well-being

MASSAGE THERAPY 

Today`s demanding lifestyles may cause stress and tension which can affect your physical health. A variety of symptoms can result:

* Headaches and migraines

* Sleep disturbances

* Muscle tension, cramps or spasms

* Fatigue, loss of energy, constant tiredness

* Restlessness, loss of concentration

* High blood pressure

* Feeling sick or dizzy

* Indigestion or heartburn  ........ and much, much more.

The secret to managing stress and tension is to look after yourself.

Massage facilitates the release of chemicals known as endorphins, the body`s own natural painkillers, bringing about a feeling of relaxation and well-being. As stress levels are reduced, the body`s own natural healing abilities kick in. Massage also serves to reduce the body`s levels of chemicals such as cortisol and norepinephrine, which can impair the immune system.

Massage enables the body to relax, thus inducing a feeling of well-being. More vigorous forms of massge can free up tense muscles and help with stiff joints. Our skin is the body`s largest sensory organ and messages are sent through the skin to the brain via the nervous system. Thus, massaging the skin has an effect on the entire body, including heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. It can also help to eliminate toxins from the body and improve muscle tone.

To make an appointment please call Jenna on 01787 828 828 or 07772 256217

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