What is Massage Therapy?

what is massage therapy

Massage therapy is a method of manipulating the soft tissues of the body, including the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It can involve kneading, long strokes, vibration, tapping, and the application of heat. The art of massage dates back to ancient civilizations, which not only practiced massage, but also documented their methods. As time went on, this craft spread and eventually even became a profession with schools.

Massages are very beneficial to the body and mind, especially for cancer patients. They help to ease the pain and boost the immune system. Neuromuscular massage is one of the most popular types of massage, and involves kneading, sweeping, and rhythmic tapping to relieve pain. Those who suffer from chronic pain should consider this type of therapy, as it can alleviate many symptoms of fibromyalgia and rheumatism.

Massages can relieve stress and anxiety by stimulating blood flow. They increase circulation and nutrients to organs and remove the “bad stuff” in the body. This is because the body has two nervous systems: the sympathetic and the parasympathetic. The sympathetic nervous system controls our fight or flight responses, whereas the parasympathetic nervous system controls our day-to-day operations. This means that when you receive a massage, you’ll be more likely to experience a more relaxing and stress-free state. Furthermore, massages improve your overall health by decreasing cortisol levels and increasing serotonin and dopamine production.

Massages also help with the circulation and mobilization of the joints. They aid in the healing of muscles and joints. In addition to promoting wellness, massages can relieve muscle tension and improve your circulation. If you’re in pain or have a medical condition, you may find this type of massage useful. When combined with stretching and proper diet, massages can help to relieve tension and improve overall performance. They can even help with sports performance.