Massage

Almost all cultures have developed systems of therapeutic massage. Massage techniques play an important part in traditional Chinese and Indian medical care. European massage was systematized in the early 19th century by Per Henrik Ling, who developed what is now known as Swedish massage.

Ling believed that vigorous massage could bring about healing by improving the circulation of the blood and lymph. In the past 20 to 30 years, complementary therapists have adapted Swedish massage to place greater emphasis on the psychological and spiritual aspects of treatment. Benefits of massage are now described more in terms such as “calmness” or “wholeness” than in terms of loosening stiff joints or improving blood flow. In contrast to the vigorous and standardized treatment recommended by Ling, current massage techniques are more gentle, calming, flowing, and intuitive.