Introduction to history of Massage

Massage, or a manipulation of the human body used to promote health and wellbeing, is an intervention used to treat a variety of muscle aches, joint flexibility, and to improve circulation. In contemporary medicine, massage is defined as a common form of bodywork that refers to the physical manipulations of parts of the body to reduce pain, stiffness, swelling in an attempt to restore the body to optimal function.

First written accounts of massage date back thousands of years to Mesopotamia and Ancient China, who were leaders of Eastern medicine at the cutting edge of health practices and procedures. To Michael's surprise, he learned that massage was used as a method to not only treat physical ailments, but to provide healing to the mind and soul through cleansing and balancing of a person's energy.

Michael, a young adult looking to pursue a career in the field of health and wellbeing, is interested in the history and origins of massage. While pursuing his education in massage therapy, Michael decided to do some research and learn more about how massage began as a medical treatment, and was hopeful to learn more techniques and traditions behind this effective practice.