Although many machines have been invented that simulate a massage, none has been created that can duplicate the power of human touch that accompanies massage therapy. The perceptive capabilities of the human hands and fingers to evaluate muscular tension and to apply the proper amounts of pressure through the application of the proper strokes is unequalled by any machine. Nor has any machine been able to duplicate the powerful psychological and social benefits of human touch.
Identification
Massage therapy is the process whereby a variety of types of touch and stroking are applied to the body to enhance health and well being. It is a valuable non-pharmaceutical method for intervention in a number of stress-related physical and mental difficulties. Massage can be performed on anyone, from infants to seniors, to help them relax or to treat a specific medical condition.
Infant Massage
Dr. Tiffany Field, researcher at Miami University's Touch Research Institute, has conducted several studies on the effects of massage on infants, even those born prematurely. Her findings indicate that the power of human touch, delivered through massage, helps babies to normalize their weight, improve oxygen saturation and helps them to be released from the hospital 47 percent faster than those not receiving touch massage therapy. Field's research found benefits even to babies who were prenatally exposed to cocaine, giving them better body function and increased relaxation.
Massage for Adults
The power of touch and massage have been known for thousands of years to produce relaxation in adults. Nearly every region of the world has developed a system for dealing with stress, and many incorporate touch and massage as key components. For example, the ancient Mayan system of abdominal massage was created to physically manipulate the abdominal structures, affect the energy of the body, and to improve emotional health. In more recent times, numerous spas and health clubs offer massage to help their clients relax and rejuvenate.
Massage for the Elderly
Dawn Nelson, internationally recognized speaker, author and touch educator from Walnut Creek, California, believes that senior adults, particularly those with Alzheimer's and other debilitating illnesses, should receive massage. The power of human touch for them, she says, helps to reassure and calm them, facilitates body awareness and most importantly, helps to ground them in the present time, space and reality. Touch and massage can be particularly helpful to the elderly, who often struggle with circulatory and other orthopedic issues.
Significance
Many fast-paced modern cultures are not touch-oriented, and offer few opportunities for nonsexual touch among adults. The basic activities inherent with the practice of massage therapy provide a safe, effective way for touch to be provided. The power of human touch through massage can be experienced through both improvements in health and increased mental relaxation.
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