Massage has been described as "the healing touch." Often referred to as bodywork or somatic therapy, massage therapy refers to the application of various techniques to the muscular structure and soft tissues of the body. It consists of a group of manual techniques that include applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, and/or causing movement of or to the body, using primarily the hands. The massage therapist can also use other areas of the body, such as the forearms, elbows or feet. These techniques affect the musculoskeletal, circulatory-lymphatic, nervous, and other systems of the body.

The goal of massage therapy is fairly straightforward: to positively affect the health and well being of the client. Numerous physical and mental health benefits have been attributed to massage, including reducing stress and aiding in relaxation; reducing the heart rate; lowering blood pressure; increasing blood circulation and lymph flow; relaxing the muscles; reducing chronic pain and improving joint range of motion. Specifically, people have found that therapeutic massage can help manage a variety of conditions:

Physical Benefits:

• relaxes the whole body.
  
• loosens tight muscles.
  
• relieves tired and aching muscles.
  
• increases flexibility and range of motion.
  
• diminishes chronic pain.
  
• calms the nervous system.
  
• enhances skin tone.
  
• assists in recovery from injuries and illness.
  
• strengthens the immune system.
  
• reduces tension headaches.
  

Mental Benefits:

• reduces mental stress.
  
• improves concentration.
  
• promotes restful sleep.
  
• aids in mental relaxation.
  

Massage therapy is recognized as one of the oldest methods of healing, with references in medical texts nearly 4,000 years old.