If you’ve ever received an informal massage from a friend or a partner, then you know how great it can feel. And a professional massage can take this wonderful experience to new heights, since a massage therapist or masseuse is specially trained in this art and knows exactly where and how to touch you for the best results. When this technique is performed correctly, it also offers a host of benefits, including relieving fatigue and promoting relaxation, loosening tight muscles, helping to relieve the pain from an injury, curing insomnia and even adding a boost to your immune system.

What's The Rub?

The practice of massage, which is also sometimes referred to as bodywork, is an ancient healing art and dates back more than 3,000 years. Today, it is used to treat a variety of chronic conditions, such as back pain, arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, infertility and depression. In addition, it’s also an effective way to lessen some of the tension and stress that can be caused by life’s every day pressures.

Technique Matters

Generally, a basic massage consists of applying pressure to your muscular system and the surrounding soft tissue areas. Some of the typical approaches that a massage therapist may use include stroking, kneading, tapping, rocking, friction, and different forms of pressure to specific areas. In addition, some therapists may choose to use oils or lotions that will help avoid irritating the skin.

It is interesting to note that there are as many as 250 or even more different massage techniques that exist. When choosing what style to explore, a lot depends on what your goals are for your treatment and who is performing the process.