4th Traditional Medicine and Plant Science

Massage Therapies

Massage therapy is one of the oldest forms of medicine. Massage is mentioned in ancient Chinese medicinal books dating back more than 4,000 years. Since Hippocrates, the "father of medicine," massage has been supported in Western healthcare practises. Massage therapy is the scientific manipulation of the body's soft tissues, primarily involving manual (hands-on) techniques such providing fixed or moveable pressure, holding, and manipulating muscles and body tissues. Massage treatment has been shown to improve pulmonary function in juvenile asthma patients, reduce psychoemotional discomfort in those with chronic inflammatory bowel disease, aid weight gain, improve motor development in preterm infants, and boost immune system performance.

Benefits:

• Reduced muscle tension
• Improved circulation
• Stimulation of the lymphatic system
• Reduction of stress hormones
• Relaxation
• Increased joint mobility and flexibility
• Improved skin tone