The word ‘massage’ is thought to have originated from the French word, meaning: ‘friction of kneading’. Massage therapy has been used for centuries as a technique for improving general health and wellbeing and increasing relaxation in almost every culture in the world. Ancient writings on massage have been found in Egypt, China, Japan, Rome, Greece and India and the bible has even been suggested to refer to massage as an early beauty treatment in its reference to ‘treatments’ with oil of myrrh.
Today, massage therapy is a popular treatment for many muscular conditions and as an indulgent way to relax. The benefits of massage are great and varied, from improving emotional wellbeing and increasing physical health to healing injury and illness – massage is an extremely powerful tool.
Most beauty salons offer pampering massage therapy treatments including Swedish massage and hot stone massages, while specialised therapists such as physiotherapists offer specific deep tissue massage treatments for targetting a variety of muscular complaints and injuries.
Massaging your partner is a healthy and effective way to bond as massaging releases the powerful feel-good hormone serotonin in the brain, causing feelings of contentment and relaxation.
Some people find that using massage oils and aromatherapy scents can increase the relaxation benefits of massage, but if you’re not equipped, we’re pretty sure your man will still appreciate a good old-fashioned foot rub in front of the tele.
Hopefully he’ll take the hint and return the favour too…
