The Christian church banned massage as a "pleasure of the flesh" in the Middle Ages. Some of that stigma still lingers for the uninitiated, but studies prove time and again that good touch can be powerful medicine.
Comforting touch sends messages along the nerves to the brain, where chemicals are then released, signalling muscles to relax. "Bodywork" is an umbrella term for the many techniques that induce relaxation and treat illness (particularly in the bones, joints and muscles) using massage, motion or any other manipulation of soft tissue. While it is not intended as a replacement for prescribed medical treatments, evidence consistently shows that the physical and mental calm induced by massage kicks off recuperative processes. Medical doctors and psychologists will often recommend various forms of bodywork as an adjunct to treatment.
Dr Tiffany Field, director of Touch Research International, set up by the University of Miami School of Medicine in 1991, has closely studied the effects of massage. Field and her colleagues discovered that it reduced "acting out" behaviour in adolescents and helped elderly people to maintain a more positive outlook and feel better physically. Research conducted by the American Massage Therapy Association shows that regular massage improves sleep patterns, reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, helps blood circulation, increases the range of motion and aids production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
With more than 200 kinds of bodywork therapy to choose from, those wanting a rub may find themselves confused about how to proceed. To start with, the best way to get a good massage is to find a good masseuse, and the best way of doing this is through word-of-mouth recommendation. Failing that, healthcare professionals, day spas and healing centres may provide referrals.
Only massage therapists who have received International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC) accreditation can get insurance cover in the Republic, so be sure to ask therapists whether or not they carry insurance, as well as how long they have practised, where they trained and if they specialise in a particular field. Because massage involves hands-on work, make sure you feel comfortable with the practitioner and the surroundings. It is important to remember that massage is not appropriate at all times. Anyone experiencing inflammation of the veins, blood clots, infectious diseases, certain forms of cancer and specific cardiac problems should not have massage. Therapists must also be informed of any bruises, fragile bones or recent surgery.
Below are brief histories of six of the most common types of massage, as well as a description of what you can expect from them. Treatments usually last between 30 and 90 minutes and cost an average of £35. All these therapies are offered in Ireland.
Swedish
What is it?
Physiologist Per Henrik Ling, born in Sweden in 1776, suffered from rheumatoid arthritis. Applying his knowledge of blood circulation to research into pain relief, he developed a system of massage combining ancient Chinese, Egyptian, Greek and Roman techniques with gymnastic exercises. It not only cured his arthritis, but became what is known today as Swedish massage.
What's it good for?
As one of the most commonly offered techniques in Europe, Swedish massage is a good introductory method for anyone feeling an initial reluctance to try bodywork. Beneficial effects include relaxed muscles, improved circulation, relief from asthma symptoms and shortened recovery time from muscle strain. Because it helps reduce emotional and physical stress, it is often recommended as part of a regular programme for stress management.
What's involved?
The technique consists of light, gliding strokes in the direction of the heart combined with percussive tapping movements and deep rubbing and kneading techniques. Limbs are gently stretched and rotated to relieve tight joints.
Sports
What is it?
Originating in Russia in the 1970s, sports massage was developed to prevent injury and help athletes perform at peak capacity. News of its efficacy quickly travelled west and, since the 1980s, nationally certified sports massage therapists have been on site at the Goodwill, Pan-American and Olympic Games.
What's it good for?
Sports massage is designed to increase blood circulation to the muscle tissue by spreading constricted muscle fibres. While it is intended to invigorate individuals engaged in strenuous activity, it is not necessary to be an athlete to benefit from it. Anyone with a physically active lifestyle can use it to get relief from muscle cramps, spasms and soreness. Sports massage also enhances stamina.
What's involved?
A warm towel or heating pad is first placed over the limbs, after which direct pressure is applied to the muscles through a combination of kneading and deep rubbing movements. Mild stretching is also involved.
Aromatherapy
What is it?
Aromatherapy, as it has evolved today, attributes aspects of physical and emotional healing to various plants. While science has yet to confirm the truth of these claims, it is worth noting that the oils to which aromatherapists assign the strongest anti-infection properties are those most commonly found in cooking, such as clove, oregano and thyme.
What's it good for?
Aromatherapy massage is commonly used to alleviate stress and depression. Benefits include increased oxygen supply to the tissues and stimulation of the immune system.
What's involved?
During a treatment, a carrier oil containing any combination of plant essences is massaged into the body using what are usually broad, relaxing strokes.
Infant
What is it?
Probably one of the most important forms of bodywork, infant massage is quite common in East Asian and African countries, where practices are handed down through generations.
What's it good for?
Substantial evidence shows that infant massage stimulates the nervous system and the brain, facilitates weight gain, increases motor activity and helps regulate internal bodily functions. It also promotes feelings of security and strengthens the bond between parent and baby.
In addition to suffering from insomnia and loss of appetite, babies of depressed mothers are shown to have elevated stress hormones. Tests have shown that infant massage can relieve the knock-on effect on babies of post-partum depression, a condition experienced by 25 to 30 per cent of mothers.
What's involved?
Ideally, the massage should take place in a comfortable seated position that provides support for both parent and baby. Techniques include a variety of gentle strokes, including stretches, squeezes and rolling motions.
Shiatsu
What is it?
Shiatsu, which translates from Japanese as "finger pressure", has ancient roots in traditional Chinese medicine. Based on the premise that a dynamic life force or universal energy known as "ki" animates all sentient and insentient life, shiatsu is designed to open communication between the body and mind to ensure that sufficient energy flows freely through all internal organs and systems.
What's it good for?
Its emphasis is on maintaining good health and preventing illness.
What's involved?
This technique is helpful to stressed or fatigued people who feel they are on the borderline between health and sickness. It can alleviate high blood pressure, insomnia, bad digestion and sinus disorders. The only touch involved in shiatsu is a still, firm pressure on specific points along energy meridians mapped out by Chinese healers more than 2,000 years ago.