Massage Therapy: History and Forms

When we take a walk back in history, we discover that massage therapy has been around since the time before Christ. Finding its origins throughout many ancient civilizations, bodywork therapies in the United States first gained recognition in the mid 19th century.

Some massage therapy modalities, like Ayurvedic Abhyanga massage, dates back thousands of years to India, and is administered by one or paired therapists. This particular body treatment integrates heated herbal oils, with gentle kneading and pressure techniques. Sometimes, the feet are used for the therapy, like the Hawaiian massage technique of Lomi Lomi.

Craniosacral therapy, sometimes used as part of an osteopathic doctor's health treatment, is commonly referred to as a unique form of massage therapy. A hands-on treatment involving light touch to assist hydraulic forces within the natural cranial sacral system, craniosacral therapy is known to free tension from the spinal cord, and optimizes spinal fluid flow.

Deep tissue technique is one of the more common forms of massage therapy, and is typically taught in most somatic education programs. This specific massage modality involves a deeper pressure application using the fingers, knuckles, or elbow.

Reflexology is an energy-based massage therapy that is most commonly administered to the soles of the feet; however, it is also administered to the hands, ears, and body. Facilitating pressure points on the soles of the feet, reflexology is a therapy with the belief that specific pressure points of the feet correspond to parts of the body that can aid in relieving pain and stress to these parts.

Chinese medical massage therapy, also known as Tuina, is similar to acupressure; and is administered through kneading, pushing, and stretching techniques at the sites of these acupressure points of the body. Also based on energy healing, Tuina is based on the philosophy that these acupressure points correlate to organ systems and parts of the body; and is believed to help promote self-healing mechanisms.

Of course there are several other massage therapy modalities available today. To find out which massage technique is best for you, you should check with your local certified massage therapist who can explain the different techniques that she uses in her practice. As with most practitioners, massage therapists must meet state educational requirements and/or licensure prior to practicing the healing art. While there are many massage therapists, it is important to note that no two massage practitioners are alike. Where one may be certified in Swedish massage, deep tissue and sports massage; more advanced therapists may offer additional services in acupressure/Shiatsu, hot stone massage, neuromuscular therapy, and myofascial release, among others.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in finding educational programs in massage therapy, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massotherapy, cosmetology, acupuncture, oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore massage therapy programs near you.

Massage Therapy: History and Forms
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