Massage

The history and practice of massage is both ancient and global. The practice goes back to before recorded history and is found in some form in every culture around the world. Massage therapists use a combination of organized and intuitive strokes on the entire body to promote healing and induce relaxation. The use of therapeutic oils can also be soothing and will nourish your skin. There are many forms of massage and each uses a particular type of stroke or pressure on the body. It is important to find out what kind of massage your therapist practices to ensure it is right for you.

Benefits

• General feelings of well-being
• Release of unexpressed emotions 
• Increased mental clarity
• Reduces anxiety 
• Improves immune function via stress reduction 
• Induces the relaxation response 
• Increases superficial circulation 
• Reduces blood pressure and heart rate
• Relaxes muscles 
• Increases venous and lymphatic flow 
• Releases endorphins 
• Aids in digestion 
• Reduces pain

Additional Resources

• Tappan's Handbook of Healing Massage Techniques, by Frances Tappan and Patricia Benjamin
• The Massage Therapy Journal. Different issues contain a variety of information regarding massage. Try local libraries or search the web.

Massage may be contraindicated for cancer; please check with your physician before beginning this treatment.