History of Massage
It is generally believed that the word massage derives from the Arabic ‘mass or Mas’h’ meaning to press softly. As an art, massage is as old as the human race – to hold or rub an injured part is an instinctive reaction to pain or discomfort.
Today, massage is a multidimensional skill encompassing a wide variety of techniques. Many of these have their roots in the system developed by Swedish physiologist Per Henrik Ling (1776 – 1839), who created the first recorded scientific system of massage movements and techniques. This consisted of five basic moves: effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), friction, tapotement (percussion), and vibration.
Massage has evolved throughout the ages to become a much more recognised approach to dealing with the stresses and tensions of modern living. It has moved away from the image it once had of being just a pampering activity you might find in a spa, to become a mainstream approach to structural healthcare.