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Remedial Massage and Massage Techniques
The basics of Massage
Massage is a "hands-on" ancient therapy that takes many forms through many cultures and countries. There are many variations of massage from many parts of the world, including Thai, Swedish, Deep tissue, Reflexology, Chinese, Shiatsu, Sports and many more forms. Although today we can find many forms, all disciplines of massage can be categorized as massage because of the common method the massage therapist uses.
Any method of pressure on or friction against, or stroking, kneading, rubbing, tapping, pounding, vibrating or stimulating of the external soft parts of the body can be considered a form of massage. A massage therapist will use prodominately their hands or arms but do sometimes incorporate relaxation chairs or appliances.
The aims of therapeutic massage are to encourage physical and mental relaxation, improve circulation and muscle tone, prevent soft tissue problems, assist the functioning of the digestive system and encourage the elimination of toxins from the body. Massage basically involves manipulating the skin, muscles and joints.
Massage therapists trained in massage are familiar with the appropriate massage techniques and can effectively work problem areas without causing excessive pain. Most will induce sleep!
Some Types of Massage practiced in Australia
There are a huge number of massage types practiced in Australia. Here is a list of some of the most common types.
Swedish Massage - involves the use of oil and smooth strokes, kneading and friction
Thai Massage - involves strong stretching and yoga like positions to work muscles
Sports Massage - Treatment of work or sports injuries
Aromatherapy Massage - Massage with the use of essential oils
Deep Tissue Massage - Uses deep pressure similar to accupressure to stimulate the muscles
Chi Nei Tsang - Taoist Chinese origin which involves the movement of chi around the organs
Craniosacral therapy - a technique to re-align spinal or cerebral imbalances
Hawaiian Massage - traditionally called "lomi-lomi", this style of massage focuses on energy and spiritual awareness
What are the benefits of Massage?
Massage can treat a wide variety of conditions, generally physical. Here are some of the more common conditions. - Sports and accidental injuries, sprains, strain
- Back pain and shoulder problems
- Aches and pains related to stress
- Irritable bowel syndrome and other digestive problems
- Menstration pain and abdominal problems such as cramps
- Frequent headaches or migraines
- Insomnia
- Emotional trauma
- Depression, anxiety or lack of appetite
- Poor circulations or high blood pressure
There are some conditions that massage may not help. It is always important to consult a health professsional for expert advice. Massage is not recommended for patients suffering from :
- Some forms of cancer or life-threatening diseases
- many acute diseases
- some skin disorders
- Infectious diseases
Find a Massage therapist now in your area. Use the search tools to the left to find a healer or course.
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