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Fundamental of Massage Therapy
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Massage is another remedial
procedure that occupies an
important place in
Naturopathy. Actually massage
has had a very long history,
dating back to ancient times.
Massage has been used
therapeutically for thousands
of years in India, China,
Greece, Rome, Egypt, etc.
Massage has a very salubrious
effect on the organs and
systems of the body as detailed
below:
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(1) Skin: The beneficial effects of massage on the skin are unequalled. The pores of
the skin are opened up, thus helping of the elimination of poisons from the body
through perspiration.
(2) Muscles: Massage reduces the tension in the muscles and relieves muscular pain.
Strenuous exertion results in the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles. Massage
helps to rid the muscles of this acid and thus imparts a feeling of freshness and
vigour.
(3) Circulation of the blood: The circulation of the blood in the part being massaged
is speeded up, so that the part is supplied with more nutrients, and its healing
powers are augmented. The accelerated circulation reduces swelling. There is an
increase in the capacity of the blood to carry oxygen and to utilize it effectively.
(4) Nerves: Slow and gentle massage with light pressure relieves tension of the
nerves and soothes them. Vigorous massage stimulates lax nerves and increases their
efficiency.
(5) The digestive system: Massaging the abdomen
stimulates the digestive system, and promotes better elimination of wastes. The
resistive powers of the body are strengthened due to the increase in the efficiency
of the liver.
(6) The urinary system: Massaging activates the urinary system. As a result the
process of elimination of toxic substances from the body through the urine is
accelerated by the formation of greater quantities of urine.
(7) The heart: Systematic massage will reduce the burden on the heart, and thus
increase its efficiency.
Normally dry palms are used for massage; but if the skin is too dry or if the body is
excessively weak, wet cloth or soothing oil may be used. Among oils, sesame (til) oil
is the best for this purpose. Some people use talcum powder for reducing friction
while massaging, but this practice is not desirable, as the pores of the skin get
clogged up.
Method: The process should begin with massage of the arms and legs. Next the
chest, abdomen, back and buttocks should be massaged, in that order, finishing
with the face and the head. Cloth should be used for massaging the back. As far as
possible, we should massage ourselves with our own hands so as to combine the
benefits of massages with those of exercise also to a certain extent. Those who are
too weak to do so may take the help of others.
A massage should preferably be followed by a bath with lukewarm water.
If suffering from high blood pressure, the direction of massaging movements should
be reversed, i.e. from head to foot.
Note: Massages are contra-indicated in the following conditions:
(1) In fevers, no massage of any type is recommended.
(2) Pregnant ladies should avoid massaging the abdomen.
(3) Abdominal massages should be avoided in cases of diarrhoea, gastric or
duodenal ulcers, appendicitis or tumours in the abdomen.
(4) Massages are generally unadvisable in cases of skin diseases.
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About Author:
Krishan Bakhru is the Editor of Natural Beauty , Free Aromatherapy Recipes
Cat Food Recipes & Dog Food Recipes
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