Foundations of Massage

Foundations of Massage

Authors: Lisa Casanelia & David Stelfox

Extract from Chapter 4 – the importance of touch – Sheena Worrall

….Smith states that this kind of tactile interaction has profound effects on the neuroendocrine system, making it possible for animals that are naturally excitable and aggressive to live calmly in close proximity to one another (Smith 2000:92). Like other primates, humans also seem to find touch an important way to bond, communicate and enjoy positive experience together.

An act of touch as simple as holding someone’s hand can have a major impact on their physiological and psychological state.

…..The profession of massage is a caring one. Massage therapy addresses the need for positive sensory experiences and comfort. Physical contact through positive touch may foster a powerful sense of connection and caring. This sense of connection with the environment and other people may be an important source of strength and comfort of humans. Massage therapy can help with this.

Physiotherapy educator Gjertrud Roxendal claims that massage is communication. She believes that the therapist, in caring for the client, is sending messages via the skin, especially the question: ‘How are you?’ The client receives the care and in turn answers via changes to breathing, muscle tension and skin reactions. Roxendal also believes that massage confirms the receiver through the body. The fact that the therapist is prepared to touch the client confers on them acceptance and validation as a person (Roxendal 1990).

…. A lot of the psychological benefits of massage therapy seem to relate to the establishment of a close and trusting relationship between client and therapist. Positive touch engenders a sense of confidence in the therapist (De Domenico & Wood 1997) and demonstrates caring and concern. Massage can evoke feelings of acceptance and respect for the body and psyche of the person being touched (McCabe 2001). ……..