By Courtney Slivka, LMT
Modern society typically approaches the human body as dictated by recent scientific discoveries. Body parts and systems have very official names, functions, and positions within a human. However ancient traditions often had a different approach to understanding the human body. Learning about the history of bodywork is an important part of understanding its role in today’s modern world. Due to its significance, many massage schools incorporate a great deal of bodywork history into their curriculum.
One of the more well known systems of medicine and body care is Traditional Chinese Medicine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, or TCM as it is often called, the body is thought to be made up of a number of different meridians or energy systems. TCM utilizes body movements, massages, herbs, and diet to maintain balance within the meridians. In theory, when the energy moves freely through the meridians, the body maintains its health. Shiatsu is an example of massage practiced along with TCM that works on the system of the meridians.
Along with the older Chinese societies, the traditional Indian culture also has their own system of medicine. The Indian approach to medicine is known as Ayurveda. In Ayurveda, people are categorized as one of three doshas, or types. They are also thought to have a system of chakras, or energy centers. Daily massages are an essential part of maintaining health according to Ayurveda. More specific therapies are also used to open the different chakras, and to balance the energy.
Most massage schools make the history of massage a mandatory part of a student’s academic career. Learning the origins of massage, its evolution, and seeming endless methods of approach to bodywork helps students find their own personal style of massage. Do not hurry through your own massage history classes. Learn to understand and take pride in your profession’s roots, and you will be better able to play a great role in its progression into the future.
© 2012 Massage Schools Guide