History of Massage

From the earliest days touch has played a central role as an instrument of healing and a facilitator of concern and compassion. It is human nature to put and arm around somebody who is upset, or rub the limb of a child who has fallen.

Ancient civilizations including those of Persia, Japan, Egypt and China all have documented evidence of use of oils and massage for therapeutic benefit.

The Greek physician Hippocrates (known as the 'father of medicine' in the West) who was born in the 5th century BC wrote "Rubbing can bind a joint that is too loose and loosen a joint that is too rigid. Hard rubbing binds, much rubbing causes parts to waste, and moderate rubbing makes them grow".

The Roman Emperor's physician, Galen, who wrote at least 16 books relating to massage and exercise, experimented in physiology and discovered that arteries were filled with blood and not air as previously believed. He varied the direction of massage according to the reason for it being applied.

By far the greatest advancement of therapeutic massage in modern times was made by the Swedish Professor Henrik Ling (1776-1839) who established the Institute for the Teaching of Swedish Massage and Medical Gymnastics in Stockholm.

Doctor Mezger of Holland (1830-1901) helped to establish massage finally as a reputable means of treatment and in 1894 a group of women formed the society of trained masseuses, which later became The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

Gradually standards were set, rules and regulations established and examination boards set up to examine the now multifaceted practice of massage.

Please view the left hand links for further information on the practices provided by Vivere.