Integrative Health Resource

	Introduction
	History
	Main Principles
	Treatments
	Main Uses

Introduction:

Massage may be the oldest and simplest form of of medical care. It has been used for thousands of years around the world to promote well-being, ease pain of all kinds, and relieve anxiety. A number of studies support its healing role in lowering blood pressure; improving circulation, muscle tone, and digestion; and promoting relaxation. Massage is an integral part of most traditional health systems around the world, and different techniques have been developed and incorporated into various complementary therapies.

Main Uses

Stress related conditions, such as insomnia and headaches
Muscle and joint disorder like arthritis, sports injuries, and back pain
Pain relief
High blood pressure
Depression
Anxiety
Digestive disorders

	Mental and Emotional Aspects:
	A range of feeling may be evoked, from sedation to arousal. The effect depends on the individual – one person may be reassured, another alarmed.

	Physical Factors:
	Pressure and stretching movements encourage muscle relaxation and improve circulation. Relieves pain by reducing the congestion of inflamed tissue.

	Chemical Imbalances:
	Changes brain and tissue chemistry by encouraging the relaxation response.

Massage of the abdomen should be avoided in the first 3 months of pregnancy. Consult a doctor if you have phlebitis, thrombosis, varicose veins, acute back pain, cancer, a personality disorder, or psycotic illness. Do not massage bruises, or skin infections