SWEDISH MASSAGE (30 mins)
The History of Body Massage
From the earliest of times, massage has been used by stroking or rubbing parts of our body that are experiencing pain. It is a universal instinct to rub ourselves when we are hurt.
Dating back 3000 years, the ancient Romans, Greeks, Chinese and Egyptians have been known to use massage. Those who could afford to do so were rubbed with olive oil after they bathed to help keep their joints and skin supple.
This soon developed into a full body massage; in fact Julius Caesar received massage to relieve his epilepsy.
In Africa and Asia massage has always be well valued and used as a healer. Today it is widely used and in the UK it is used as a way to treat ill health, relaxation and as a preventative.
Benefits of a Full Body Massage
The power of touch is huge and should not be underestimated as a
luxury. Apart from the pampering aspect of the treatment, massage has many physiological and phychiological benefits.
Massage is known to:
- Relieve joint restrictions and increase joint mobility
- Relieve tight muscles, stiffness, soreness and spasms
- Increase flexibility and range of movement in the muscles
- Improve circulation, delivering more nutrients and releasing toxins and waste from the muscles
- Reduce muscular fatigue and soreness in the muscles
- Reduce ischaemia (poor blood-flow) easing localised pain & tissue dysfunction
- Reduce oedema (excess fluid in the tissue) by increasing lymphatic drainage
- Strengthen the immune system
- Soothe and stimulate the nervous system from the combination of massage techniques used
- Stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system leading to stress reduction
- Release endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers and mood enhancers)
- Improve circulation, resulting in quicker regeneration and healthier skin
- Increase production of sweat, leading to better removal of toxins via the skin
- Improve skin colour and elasticity, leading to younger-looking skin
- Increase sebum production, improving the skin’s suppleness and resistance to infection
- Deepen respiration and increase lung capacity by relaxing respiratory muscles
- Improve digestion and help to relieve constipation, IBS, colic, flatulance
- Reduce levels of stress and anxiety
- Promote deep levels of relaxation
- Improve feelings of fatigue and increase energy levels
- Stimulate physical activity
- Increase awareness of posture
- Help to improve depression
- Rejuvenate the body and mind
- Enhance feelings of self-esteem
- Ease emotional trauma
- Promote feelings of happiness
How Often Should We Have a Full Body Massage?
This will depend on the individual and their reason for treatment. Some people like to receive a massage on a weekly basis but, at the least, it is advisable to have a full body massage once a month as a preventative measure.