VII. History of Massage Therapy

The earliest written records of massage therapy were discovered in Egypt and China. Tomb paintings in Egypt depict individuals being kneaded by others. In China, texts documenting the medical benefits of massage therapy date back to approximately 2700 BCE. The Chinese tradition of massage therapy was developed from the combined expertise and methods of doctors in traditional Chinese medicine, practitioners of martial arts, Buddhists and Taoists who viewed touch as essential to their spiritual yoga, and laymen who offered massages for relaxation.

Chinese massage methods originated from the principle that diseases and illnesses arise due to a deficiency or imbalance in the energy in specific pathways or meridians that represent physiological systems. Through massage and other specific bodywork techniques, energy will flow more harmoniously through these pathways, allowing the body to heal itself naturally.

Benefits of Massage Therapy:

Reduce muscle tension and pain
Reduce stress, anxiety, and blood pressure
Promote circulation and elimination of toxins
Speed recovery from injury
Increased flexibility, range of motion, and athletic performance

I am highly skilled in many specific techniques including:

Deep Tissue Therapy Myofascial Release Trigger Point Therapy Active Release Therapy Swedish Massage

Our bodies communicate to us clearly & specifically, if we are willing to listen. ~Shaki Gawain