The word massage comes from the Greek and means something like kneading. As early as approx. 2,500 B.C., massage was mentioned in the form of mechanical influence on skin, connective tissue and muscles by means of stretching, pulling and pressure stimuli with the help of massage grips and gymnastic exercises. According to today’s knowledge, the first specific applications of the beneficial effects of a massage for healing occurred in eastern Africa and in the Asian region (China, Persia).
In addition to Asian origins, indigenous peoples of North and South America have also demonstrated an impressive knowledge of massage techniques. The Cherokee Indians, for example, used the index finger for a type of deep massage and applied full-body massages as part of their comprehensive health care regimen. This knowledge later flowed into the development of European massage through the conquest of the Americas.
After its rediscovery in the 15th century by the physician and philosopher Philippus Theophrastus Aureolus Bombastus von Hohenheim, who became known under the pseudonym Paracelsus, the massage reached its peak in the 17. and 18th century in France reached a peak. From this period comes the present name itself, as well as the name of the five classical massage techniques: effleurage (stroking), friction (rubbing), tapotement (tapping), petrissage (kneading), and vibration (shaking, trembling). Other techniques include: Circulation, displacement, stretching and trigger points/trigger points.
Timeless and appreciated – the feel-good or wellness massage
Depending on the purpose of the massage, there are basically two different types of massage: the wellness massage and the medical massage. Depending on the type of massage, the effects of a massage on our body can be quite different. Well-being or wellness massages are the most commonly used, which is probably also due to the modern zeitgeist.
Nowadays, many people suffer from back pain and tension due to, for example, monotonous sitting postures and too little exercise. Massage with its many forms has gained extraordinary importance as a balance for body, mind and soul. With targeted massage strokes, the tensions are released and the muscles are positively influenced. In addition to these mechanical effects, reflexive effects also occur.
Patients with depression also largely report the soothing and balancing effect of a good massage. The exact relationship of the effect of a massage on people with depression has not yet been scientifically researched, but it seems likely that human contact plays the decisive role.
We offer mobile massages in Vienna
Our experienced FitBloom masseurs will focus on one area of your body or work on your entire body, according to your wishes and after individual consultation. Do something good for your body and treat yourself to this important balance to hard fitness workouts and stressful workdays. You will notice after a short time what physiological changes a massage brings to your body.