Massage is a healing art. It is the systematic and scientific manipulation of the soft tissue of the body. It is one of the oldest and most therapeutic techniques known to mankind. The Romans, Greeks, Egyptians and Indians have been practicing massage since 2000 B.C. and Chinese since 3000 B.C.

The purpose of massage is to bring about physiological, mechanical, and psychological changes. Relaxation, relief from pain and an increased range of motion can be accomplished through massage.

In addition to the treatment of injured or ill people, massage can be used to prepare healthy muscles for strenuous sports activity, or to assist the body in recovering from the after effects of such activity.

The Benefits

• Relaxation of muscles

• Neck and shoulder stiffness can be relieved

• Increase in oxygen to muscles

• Improves circulation, providing brain with extra oxygen

• Promotes hair growth 

• Can relieve headaches and tension

• Improves condition and texture of hair

• Provides a feeling of well-being

When not to massage

• When high or low blood pressure is present

• When any serious illness is present - a GP's permission is required

• When recent accidents, operations or injuries have happened

• When there are infections or skin conditions

• When there is a temperature or fever

• When there is a migraine sufferer - reduce the duration and lessen pressure

• When someone is epileptic