The Human Touch
Posted on July 26, 2011
Most people long for the human touch—a hug, a pat on the back, any kind of physical contact. I know I do. Physicians have long known that “laying on of hands” is a method of healing. Today there are many opportunities for people to receive this healing touch through massage.
This website lists over 160 different types of massage!
http://www.massage-therapy-benefits.net/types-of-massage-therapy.html
The most common massage therapies offered in the United States include the following:
- Accupressure
- Amma
- Chair massage
- Deep tissue massage
- Reiki
- Shiatsu
- Swedish massage
Massage developed a bad reputation as so-called “massage parlors” proliferated during the 1970s and 1980s as fronts for prostitution. But the overwhelming majority of massage practitioners today are certified professionals whose work has nothing to do with the sex industry.
The benefits of massage include:
- Relaxed muscles, and a relaxed mind and spirit too!
- Increased range of motion for stiff joints
- Healthier skin
- Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Improved circulation
- Better sleep
- Less fatigue
My wife is a lawyer, a Realtor®, and a business professional who manages a large non-profit organization. But earlier in her life, she became a licensed massage therapist. I get an almost daily benefit from her massage skills, and I have learned how to give massage as well. It’s a great way to for us to help each other relax, and maintain and enhance our relationship through touch. I recommend that even if you don’t become a massage professional, you would benefit from learning some of the simple techniques of basic massage.
For the more adventurous, how many people have heard of Watsu, a Japanese version of massage given while the recipient floats in a hot spring pool or hot tub? Warm water and massage combined—doesn’t that sound delicious?
In the world of macrobiotics, it is said that human beings should spent at least a half hour a day barefoot, in touch with the earth. How far are we from that ideal, as we walk around on concrete or asphalt, our feet encased in leather shoes?
Devotees of macrobiotics say too that food is best when grown and eaten locally. These concepts are related—and are related to the human touch. Good old Mother Earth wants to hug us and feed us. She wants us to be close to her. So kick off those stiletto heels, munch some locally grown organic veggies, and give your partner a nice back rub! Or find a good massage therapist and try it out. I’ll bet you’ll feel better in all ways: physically, mentally, and spiritually.