The History of Massage Therapy
Massage therapy has had a place in holistic medicine for thousands of years across cultural barriers. The first known mentioning of using touch as a form of medicine dates to an ancient Chinese medical text called “The Yellow Emperors Classic Book of Internal Medicine” from around 2700 BCE. Chinese methods operate on the basis that sickness comes from body imbalance and massage was used to contribute to balancing energy flow. This book is still relevant, in some instances, being used as a textbook to teaching alternative medicines such as acupuncture and acupressure.
Egyptian tomb paintings from around 2500 BCE depict massage therapy as a large part of the Egyptians cultural medical practices. In fact, Egypt is credited with the creation of reflexology and their studies greatly influenced newer cultures and current alternative medical practices.
Along with Egypt and China, Hindus in India taught the art of the healing touch as a general practice of medicine. Using touch with a combination aromatherapy and meditation, the Hindu or Ayurvedic (“life health”) method of therapy is the main basis of holistic medicine today.
Each of these methodologies branched into their own unique forms of massage and using human touch to heal. Today there are more than 20 different types of massage developed to heal specific injuries, sicknesses, and imbalances within the body.
If you are ready to take the step to learn these techniques yourself, Wellspring School of Allied Health is enrolling now. Heal at the next level, train with us today!