Treatments

Massage

Massage is one of the oldest treatments used by humans, as long ago as 3000BC massage was used as a therapy in the Far East. In 5 BC, Hippocrates recommended that to maintain health, a massage using oils should be taken daily after a perfumed bath. The relaxation and healing powers of massage have been well documented over the past 5,000 years.

Massage is a wonderful treatment. Numerous studies have shown that touch has the power to affect us on all levels i.e. body, mind and well-being.

The soothing touch of hands on skin stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system into a state of deep relaxation, thus making massage superlative for offsetting the ill effects of stress.

Massage builds up the body's strength and helps to build stamina. It can used to treat people with hypertension (high blood pressure), sinusitis, headaches, insomnia and hyperactivity, including people who suffer from heart ailments or circulatory disorders. Massage aids the elimination of toxins in the body, stimulates the nervous and muscular system and the circulation of blood.

Individuals whose work involves a great deal of physical activity, such as dancers and athletes, can also derive a great deal of benefit from the use of massage. Stiffness encountered after training and working, can be relieved by encouraging the toxins that gather in the muscles to disperse.

Massage promotes a feeling of calmness and serenity, and this is particularly beneficial to people who frequently suffer from bouts of depression or anxiety. Once the worry and depression have been dispelled, people are able to deal with their problems much more effectively and, being able to do so, will boost their self-confidence.

Massage also makes the skin look softer, smoother and more radiant.

In hospitals, massage has been used to ease pain and discomfort as well as being of benefit to the bedridden as it stimulates the flow of blood to the muscles.

There are few conditions when it is not recommended. However it should not be used on individuals suffering from inflammation of the veins (phlebitis), varicose veins, thrombosis (clots in the blood) or have a raised temperature. If in doubt consult your doctor before a massage.

There are many types/styles of massage such Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Lympathic Drainage Massage, Champissage, Shirodhara, Accupressure, Tui Na, Thai Massage, Shiatsu etc.