The broad field of massage therapy is characterized by the use of hands-on manipulation of the soft tissues of the body (muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia) through touch, movement and pressure. There are many methods of massage currently practiced in the U.S. Some of these are based on principles and techniques from Eastern healing systems and focus on balancing the flow of energy within the body. Approaches based on releasing blocked energy flow include shiatsu/acupressure, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Jin Shin Do, Reiki, polarity therapy and reflexology, and others.
There are also many massage techniques that are based on western principles of anatomy and physiology. The most prevalent include Swedish massage, Esalen massage, deep tissue massage, infant massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and sports massage. While specific techniques vary, these types of massage generally concentrate on the health of the muscular, fascial and connective tissue that hold the body together and move it, as well as the freer circulation of fluids throughout the body, such as blood, lymph and cellular fluid. Therapeutic goals on the physical level include increased blood and lymphatic flow, elimination of toxic waste stored in muscles, enhanced immune system function, release of tension and holding, and improved posture and flexibility.
In addition to the considerable benefits of enhanced physical function and energy balance and flow, massage also speaks to emotional, mental, sensory and spiritual concerns. This potential depth of influence is available through all forms of massage and depends on the awareness and development of the practitioner and the receptivity, readiness and intention of the client. Massage can provide the opportunity to explore deeper levels of relaxation and peace, self-acceptance, emotional openness, creativity, self-awareness, a new and vital connection to one’s body, and trust and connection with another. It thus offers the possibility of healing and self-development on many levels.
Different Theories on How it Works
The underlying therapeutic assumptions vary between eastern and western approaches. Eastern approaches are based on the flow of energy, or chi, through the meridians or energy pathways of the body. The practitioner determines areas where the energy is blocked or restricted and through gentle or firm pressure using the hands, fingers, and elbows, seeks to re-establish the free flow of energy through these areas. The therapeutic goal is directed towards balanced energy flow throughout the entire body. It is felt that this free and balanced energy flow supports all the organs and functions of the body and that it is the basis of physical, psychological and even spiritual health.
The western approaches are more focused on influencing the structure and therefore the function of the soft tissues of the body which in turn affect other areas such as skeletal structure, organs, circulation, nerves, respiration and psychological well being. Release of tension and constriction in muscles and other soft tissues is thought to improve blood circulation which may result in more effective removal of toxins or waste products from the tissues of the body, reduced healing time from injury, improved oxygenation, and better support for organ function. Release of muscular and soft tissue restrictions can also lead to freer movement, enhanced respiration, and relief from muscular pain due to nerve impingement. The structural alignment of the body can be positively affected, as the bones are freer to return to their proper position in the skeletal structure. This too may have broader beneficial impact on other physiological functions. All these physical changes can support psychological feelings of well being, deep relaxation, increased awareness and vitality, and greater self-acceptance.
Conditions it Works Best For
Traditionally massage has had a broad range of applications, from specific neuromuscular conditions such as back or neck pain to the management of generalized tension and anxiety. Clinical studies confirm its benefits for the treatment of anxiety in the elderly, pediatric atopic dermatitis, pregnancy-related symptoms such as anxiety, mood, sleep and back pain, post-exercise muscle soreness, reduction of anxiety and pain in critical care settings, and to enhance relaxation.
