Massages can be defined as the systematic and therapeutic use of touch to relax the muscles of the body, for healing, relaxation or relieving stress. Massages can either be given manually or with mechanical aids on the soft tissues of the body like the muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. Sometimes massages are also used for physical and psychological benefits and are termed "therapeutic massage".
Massages not only reduce muscle tension and relieve pain but also open the pores of the skin and speed up blood circulation as well. In naturopathy, massage occupies a very important place in the treatment of diseases of all kinds, and for centuries it has been used as a remedy in countries like India, Greece, Rome, Egypt and China. However, according to the modern system of physiotherapy, the process of massage begins with massaging of upper limbs and lower limbs, followed by the chest, abdomen, back and hips, and ending with the face and the head.
Most modern Western massage techniques are based on an understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the body, and hand movements in modern massage techniques facilitate the circulation of blood and the lymphatic system to release muscular tension and joint stiffness. On the other hand, Oriental massage therapies are based on the ?meridian? system of energetic channels that course through the body, to release blockages and improve the flow of vital energy in these channels.
Although massage has many benefits, one should be careful not to get a massage during any type of fevers, or during pregnancy. One should also avoid abdominal massage in case of diarrhea, ulcers, appendicitis and tumors in the abdomen. A massage produces heat; therefore, after half an hour of getting a massage done one should take a hot water bath or shower, with the head bathed with lukewarm water.
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