Massage is perhaps one of the oldest healing traditions. Many ancient cultures were convinced of the therapeutic properties of massage and used it to treat a variety of ailments. 

The term ‘Massage Therapy’ is used to describe different techniques which vary in the manner touch, pressure and the intensity of the treatment are applied. It’s the practice of kneading or manipulating a person’s muscles and other soft-tissue in order to improve their wellbeing or health. It is a form of manual therapy that includes holding, moving, and applying pressure to the muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia.

Massage therapy relaxes muscle tissue, which reduces painful contractions and spasms. Massage can also reduce nerve compression. To understand this, consider that when muscles are contracted, they sometimes compress the nerves around them.

One of the immediate benefits of massage is a feeling of deep relaxation and calm. This occurs because massage prompts the release of endorphins – the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) that produce feelings of wellbeing. 

Levels of stress hormones, such as adrenalin, cortisol and norepinephrine, are also reduced. Studies indicate that high levels of stress hormones impair the immune system. 

Some of the benefits of massage therapy include:

• reduced muscle tension
• improved circulation
• stimulation of the lymphatic system
• reduction of stress hormones
• relaxation
• increased joint mobility and flexibility
• improved skin tone
• improved recovery of soft tissue injuries
• heightened mental alertness
• reduced anxiety and depression.

Research indicates that massage therapy is effective in managing: 

• subacute/chronic low back pain
• delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS)
• anxiety
• stress
• soft tissue injuries
• high blood pressure
• insomnia.

It can be effectively used to support people with:

• chronic diseases
• some life threatening illnesses such as cancer.

Massage Therapy usually has a defined purpose in mind: to relieve pain or tension on a specific part of the body with the intention to improve a specific ailment or condition. 

In a spa setting, there is no clear end goal in mind and the reason is mainly relaxation.

There are some instances where massage therapy may not be recommended and our physios will advise you against it. Some of those cases can be: 

• pregnancy
• if you have skin rashes, cuts or infections
• in case of fractures or broken bones
• in case of some life threatening illnesses