Though these days it is all about living in a modern, electronic, and fast-paced world, when it comes to our therapies, many people still like to depend on centuries-old techniques in relaxing tight muscles and soothing tired bodies. Probably because when it comes to techniques for comfort and relief, many still think "if it ain't broke, don't fix it." Here are some of the more famous of these ancient therapeutic methods.
1) Hot stone massage: This technique was supposedly first used more than 2,000 years ago in China, but other sources say that placing heated stones, typically basalt, on the body to relax muscles was an ancient Native American practice.
Hot stone massage, also sometimes referred to as river rock massage or LaStone therapy, the latter after Mary Nelson who popularized the massage method in the modern world) offers benefits such as soothing painful conditions like arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome, relieving tension, and lubricating joints for mobility.
 |
| Image source: wikipedia.org |
2) Cupping therapy: This treatment, which traces its roots to several places, namely ancient Egypt, China, and Greece, has two main methods: dry cupping and wet cupping. Both types have therapists apply suction cups to the skin thus allowing the blood to flow and heal the body.
With the dry version, the cups only suction to mobilize the blood's flow while wet cupping practitioners will first suction the skin the make small incisions to draw out blood to clean the body of toxins. This is generally recommended to those suffering from anemia, arthritis, and migraines, among other conditions.
 |
| Image source: businessinsider.com |
3) Ayurvedic therapy: This comes by way of centuries-old Indian medical traditions. This holistic wellness philosophy believes that health is hinged on a balance between the mind, body, and soul. Thus, in practice, Ayurvedic therapy involves a nutritious diet, exercise, oiled massages, and even music.
Adherents believe that Ayurvedic therapy can purge the body of toxins, revitalize the body, restore balance, improve immunity, offer stress relief and rejuvenate a person.
These therapeutic traditions may be old, and it may be tempting to think them antiquated or obsolete. Still, even modern healthcare professionals see the merit in the continued practice of these therapeutic arts for improving peoples' well-being. No doubt, hot stone massage, Ayurvedic therapy, and cupping therapy aren't going to disappear anytime soon.
Massage Envy Spa is a nationally-recognized name in high-quality yet affordable massage therapy and spa services. Follow this Twitter account for updates on the company's services and offerings.
