Massage and bodywork

Many cultures have used forms of touch to restore health. Modern bodywork often comes from this ancient wisdom. We know the Chinese and Japanese used acupressure in their traditional medicine. Images in an ancient Egyptian "physician's tomb" show people massaging the feet, which may have been a healing technique for them as well. Hippocrates, the Greek "father of medicine," born around 460 B.C., spoke of "rubbing and massage to relieve pain in the joints."

While styles of touch vary for each system of bodywork, a common philosophy suggests that when the body's flow of energy is obstructed, "blocks" occur which reduce health. Touch can help restore energy flow to help heal disease or increase vitality.

Types of massage and bodywork we cover in this module are:

• Massage – The art of treating the body by rubbing or kneading to improve blood flow, increase suppleness, and relieve tension.
• Reflexology – A system of applying pressure to points mapped on the foot or hand that correspond to internal body organs to promote healing and relieve stress.
• Acupressure – Applying pressure to acupuncture points with the fingers, or as in Shiatsu and Thai Massage, sometimes also with elbows, knees, hands, and feet.
• Polarity – A touch therapy to balance positive and negative energy flows.
• Craniosacral therapy – Adjusting the flow of spinal fluid through gentle pressure.