Massage has been used as a healing therapy for thousands of years. Historical texts from ancient cultures show that they considered massage to be calming, soothing and relaxing, and also very important as a healing therapy. With the recent revival of interest in alternative therapies, massage has once again attained an important place as a holistic cure and preventive therapy for various ailments. There are many different kinds of massage therapies available, each of which offers specific benefits to the mind and body.
Body massage therapies are mainly derived from two schools. The modern Western school of massage therapy aims at releasing muscular tension and joint stiffness by facilitating the circulation of blood and the lymphatic system. The Oriental school of massage therapy releases blockages and improves the flow of vital energy in the energy channels that course through the body.