Dating back 5000 years, Chinese medicine took shape, using massage as a treatment for illness. Knowledge of massage then transitioned from China to the Indian subcontinent 3000 years ago and was an important part of the Hindu tradition. From the East, the practice of massage spread to Europe and is believed to have flourished prior to 300 B.C.  In the 6^th century A.D., massage was practiced in Japan and in 1858, it was introduced to the United States. Over time, various techniques have been developed, but the Swedish style of massage is the foundation for most modalities currently practiced. These techniques were found to improve circulation, relieve muscle tension, improve range of motion and promote general relaxation.

Deep Tissue massage uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish Massage, but the pressure will generally be more intense and the movements are more deliberate. Deep tissue is also a more focused type of massage, as the therapist works to release chronic muscle tension, adhesions or knots.  Trigger point techniques are often utilized to maximize the effectiveness of deep tissue work. It’s likely to be a bit less comfortable than a classic Swedish massage. You should always feel free to speak up if the pressure is too much for you.

It’s important to have a realistic understanding of what a person can achieve with one deep tissue massage session.  Many people ask for more pressure, thinking that if the therapist just pushes hard enough, they can get rid of all their knots in one session. This just isn’t possible. Your best chance of success in smoothing out a lifetime of chronic knots and tension is with an integrated program that includes exercise, focus on movement and posture, relaxation techniques, dietary and fluid intake adjustments and a regular massage regimen.

A good link to consider: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Massage

Although the origins of chair massage can be traced back to the earliest history of bodywork, this method was popularized in 1982 by David Palmer, a former massage school owner/instructor.  Mr. Palmer wanted to help his students find a way to introduce their services to potential clients. In 1986, he developed the first specialized chair for seated massage and today, seated massage is widely available around the world and is an integral part of the massage therapy profession.

Many employers are focusing on wellness to help reduce healthcare costs, improve productivity and increase morale.

A recent Study conducted at 3M Corporation, in cooperation with Karina Garcia and University of Texas Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, demonstrates that chair massage enhances one’s overall well being and performance by:

• Reducing stress
• Increasing one’s quality of sleep
• Reducing the instances of common cold or flu symptoms
• Decreasing the number of depressed mood incidences
• Increasing concentration
• Decreasing the instances of being overly tired or lacking energy
• Decreasing the number of headaches
• Enhancing a secure sense of self