Have you ever had a massage? Have you ever contemplated it? If you have had one, you'll know about all the benefits that come with it. If not, here's something you need to know. Massage is by no means anything new. It dates back to ancient cultures. Records of different massage types go back through the ages in all parts of the world to many ancient civilizations.

When receiving a massage, the superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue are manipulated to enhance function and promote relaxation and well-being. The art of massage became popular in the US in the 1800's. It had a surge of popularity until the 1930's and 40's. When modern medicine came to the forefront, the art of massage therapy became discounted as lesser than. Suddenly, it became popular again in the 1960's and 1970's when nurses began to use it to relieve pain in patients. It again gained credibility when, in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta it was deemed a core medical service.

There are many words in many languages that give us the word massage. I love studying different languages. It's especially exciting when all cultures have the same word and customs. The word comes from the Latin word "frictio", as well as from the French word meaning "friction or kneading", and the Arabic word "massa" meaning to touch, feel or handle.

Massage is done in a variety of ways with a variety of ancient remedies. The person is either on a table, chair, or a mat, and is generally unclothed, but may be modestly covered with towels or sheets. If the person is uncomfortable with this, she/he may wear underwear. Some massage therapists use oil, or even such thing as body rocks! Different oils can be used to stimulate blood flow and relaxation. A body rock can be either cold or warm and coated in different sorts of oils such as fractionated coconut oil, grape seed oil, olive oil, macadamia oil, sesame oil, pecan oil and mustard and aromatherapy oils. Wow, what a combination, sounds like it could be a great trail mix or salad dressing, doesn't it?

This is not the extent of the variety of massages and remedies that are available. As well as a plethora of oils, there are many body parts used to give a massage. A massage can be applied by using the masseuse;s hands, fingers, elbows, knees, forearms or feet. Yes, feet! You can be walked on by someone, and, if done properly, it can feel good.

Anyway, one must find one's favorite type of massage. Not only are there many ways and oils, but it can be cultural. It can be an international experience. You may find that Lomi Lomi massage in Hawaii, Samoan, Shiatsu, Thai or even Chinese massage suits your needs. If not, then maybe try Swedish massage, which, incidentally in Sweden is known as classical massage.

Whatever ails you, there is a massage that will suit you. Your pain, anxiety, depression and a variety of diseases can be relieved, whether temporary or permanent. There is no way to blind-test massage therapy, as the person being tested is going to be touched, and we cannot deny that the sense of touch is very therapeutic by itself. Be sure to try it out and find what type of massage works best for you!