Massage is often thought of as an indulgence, a "treat" reserved for only those who wish to "pamper" themselves. In truth, massage is an alternative form of therapy that promotes natural healing of the body and mind. Massage therapy covers a wide range of manipulations of the soft tissues of the human body. These soft tissues include skin, muscles, tendons, associated fascia, ligaments, and joint capsules. Massage is one of the oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use; the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians applied forms of massage for many ailments. Today, the benefits of massage are varied and far-reaching. As an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, massage therapy has also proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including low back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and more. And, as many will attest, massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness. Since massage is a natural, non-invasive form of therapy, it is a safer alternative to modern day western medicine that is often costly and produces unhealthy side effects. Massage therapy is also effective as a preventative measure. It is best to start treatments before any problems arise so you can maintain good health. However, if a condition is already present, massage therapy is a natural way to begin the healing process. Physical Benefits Decrease muscle tension and stiffness Reduces pain and swelling Eases muscle spasms Improves circulation Improves posture Reduces blood pressure Relief of tension-related headaches and migraines Aides rehabilitation after injury Psychological Benefits Provides stress relief Reduces levels of anxiety Creates body awareness Promotes better sleep patterns Improves concentration NEWS ON MASSAGE ... New York Times - Vital Signs Regimens: Massage Benefits Are More Than Skin Deep By RONI CARYN RABIN Published: September 20, 2010 Does a good massage do more than just relax your muscles? To find out, researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles...     READ MORE>>> Science Daily® - Science News Adults Demonstrate Modified Immune Response After Receiving Massage, Researchers Show September 9, 2010 - Researchers in Cedars-Sinai's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences have reported people who undergo massage experience measureable changes in their body's immune and endocrine response.     READ MORE>>> National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine | National Institute Of Health Study Examines the Effects of Swedish Massage Therapy on Hormones, Immune Function September 1, 2010 - Massage is used for many health purposes, but little is known about how it works on a biological level.    READ MORE>>> National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine | National Institute Of Health Massage Therapy As An Option In Supportive Care September 2010 - In the 2007 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), massage was the fifth-most-used CAM therapy.    READ MORE>>> National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine | National Institute Of Health Massage Therapy May Ease Pain and Improve Mood in Advanced Cancer Patients May 2010 - People with advanced cancer often experience pain that causes physical and emotional distress, which leads to a decrease in functional ability and quality of life.     READ MORE>>> National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine | National Institute Of Health Study Finds Benefits of Therapeutic Massage for Chronic Neck Pain March 25, 2009 - Neck pain is a common health problem in the United States. People suffering from neck pain often turn to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies.    READ MORE>>>