What is massage?
Massage is a therapy which aims to stimulate the body
through the skin, the body’s largest sensory organ. This is achieved through the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body
- that is, muscles, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and joints. Usually administered by hand (but also by
elbows and feet), massage can be applied to any part of the body to heal
injury, relieve psychological stress and tension, improve circulation, manage
pain, relax muscle spasms and eliminate waste and toxins from the body.
There are many different massage techniques. Some are gentle, aiming to trigger the
release of endorphins (the body's own painkillers) and promote a sense of
relaxation and wellbeing. Other
techniques are stronger to help to stretch uncomfortable muscles, ease stiff
joints and so improve mobility and flexibility.
For more information on the range of massage therapies available see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage
A man who administers massage therapy is called a masseur and a woman is a masseuse.
