There are many theories about the origin of the word “massage”, whether it comes from the Greek verb (massō) meaning “to touch, handle, work with the hands”, the Arabic massa, meaning “to touch, feel and handle”, or the French massage - “friction through kneading”. Whatever its origin, the word certainly reflects the essence of the practice. Therapeutic massage has existed since ancient times. It is a technique involving the controlled application of pressure to the body using the hands, mechanical instruments or devices. Therapeutic massage is used to improve muscle tone and condition, support the nervous system and contribute to a person’s overall health and physical condition.
History of therapeutic massage
The benefits of therapeutic massage have been known since ancient times, when it was used for relaxation, prevention and health. The ancient Chinese and Indians were familiar with massage techniques and incorporated them into their daily lives. Indians combined the benefits of therapeutic massage with steam baths. The steam helped open the pores and enhanced the beneficial effects of massage. The Chinese, in turn, applied gentle pressure to specific points on the body to improve physical condition, an early form of preventive care and therapeutic massage. Information about these practices can be found in a Chinese book dating back to around 2600 BC, which discusses acupuncture, tai chi and acupressure.
We have all heard about the importance placed on beauty and health care in ancient Egypt. Like the Indians, the Egyptians practised therapeutic massage in combination with steam baths, taking care of their legs, backs and joints.
And of course, we cannot overlook the contribution of the Greek and Roman civilisations to the development and understanding of therapeutic massage. Hippocrates should certainly be mentioned, as he believed that physicians should master massage techniques. Aristotle also supported this idea in his works. Gradually, we reach the era of the gladiators, who benefited from therapeutic massage, mineral springs and water therapies. Shortly afterwards came Galen, regarded as one of the most influential thinkers in ancient medicine, who classified massage into different types, including therapeutic massage, oil massage, dry massage and others.
Although the exact origin of this practice remains unclear, therapeutic massage was regarded by each of these civilisations as a means of supporting health and having a beneficial effect on both body and mind.
Benefits of therapeutic massage
Therapeutic massage may be recommended as part of medical therapy or preventive care. Specialists often recommend regular massage sessions. Its benefits for relaxation, reducing muscle discomfort and relieving stress are well known.
- During therapeutic massage, endorphins are released, which is one of the reasons we feel so relaxed, calm and sometimes sleepy after a massage.
- Therapeutic massage can help regulate epinephrine and cortisol levels, hormones associated with the body’s stress response and blood pressure.
- It can help relieve pain, stiffness and discomfort associated with sports injuries.
- One of the benefits particularly appreciated by many women is that anti-cellulite massage may help reduce the appearance of cellulite by stimulating blood circulation in the treated areas.
Types of therapeutic massage
First of all, we recommend that our guests consult our physiotherapists and, in the case of health concerns, medical specialists, so that we can recommend the most appropriate procedure or therapy. Below are several common types of massage and therapeutic massage to help you better understand which option may be suitable for your needs:
- therapeutic massage – classic massage – a basic form of massage that does not focus on one specific problem. Its aim is to tone and relax the body as a whole. It includes long, circular movements designed to be comfortable and non-painful.
- therapeutic massage – sports massage – intended for people engaged in more intensive physical activity. It focuses on the muscles, helps reduce the risk of injury and supports the relief of muscle stiffness.
- therapeutic massage – trigger point massage – a more specialised type of massage focused on areas of muscle tension and stiffness. Trigger point massage can also support the prevention of injuries.
- therapeutic massage – deep tissue massage – a more intensive massage that works on the deeper layers of the muscles and helps release accumulated tension.
- therapeutic massage – anti-cellulite massage – a specialised massage designed to stimulate circulation and support the reduction of fluid retention in the treated areas.
Therapeutic massage at Aquahouse Thermal & Beach
Therapeutic massage is one of the established practices used in modern wellness, SPA and rehabilitation centres. Receiving a therapeutic massage by the sea can make the experience even more restorative for both body and mind. Aquahouse Thermal & Beach combines mineral water, sunshine and a seaside climate. This combination alone creates the perfect environment for feeling healthier, calmer and more energised.
We offer therapeutic massage and a selection of procedures designed for people seeking rehabilitation, prevention, recovery or simply relaxation.
Combined with the wide range of opportunities offered by the SPA centre, therapeutic massage is an excellent way to leave everyday stress behind during your visit. Just as people in ancient Rome combined steam baths with therapeutic massage, today we continue to appreciate the benefits of this combination. At Aquahouse Thermal & Beach, you can choose from the following types of massage and therapeutic massage:
- Classic massage
- Aroma massage
- Therapeutic massage with magnesium oil
- Reflexology
- Sports massage
- Relaxing massage
- Bali massage
- Thai massage
- Ayurveda massage
You can enjoy any of the massages listed above, but here we would like to pay special attention to therapeutic massage with magnesium oil. Magnesium oil is an effective way to deliver magnesium through topical application. On the one hand, it hydrates the skin, while on the other, it supplies the muscles with magnesium, an important mineral for their normal function. This type of therapeutic massage promotes better sleep, helps relax tired and overworked muscles and provides the body with magnesium. In combination with massage movements, it stimulates blood circulation in the treated area and may help relieve post-exercise muscle discomfort. It also supports the normal functioning of the nervous system and may help reduce feelings of tiredness and fatigue.
Visit us at Saints Constantine and Helena Resort, where the sea meets mineral water, the sun warms the body and soul, and the facilities of Aquahouse Thermal & Beach take relaxation and well-being to another level. Along with the facilities of our SPA centre, we offer therapies, massages, therapeutic massage and a variety of wellness and rehabilitation procedures. Our highly qualified team is trained in working with specialised equipment, physiotherapy, cosmetic treatments and therapeutic massage techniques. Trust our specialists, relax under the sun and enjoy the sound of the sea waves while taking care of your health and well-being.