Massage is often called soft-tissue manipulation. Soft tissue is a general term to cover all the superficial tissues other than bone.

Three important constituents of a good massage are:-                                             CONTINUITY                                                                                                           Interruptions in the massage routine should be kept to a minimum with the hands staying in contact as much as possible and the transition from one stroke to another made without a break. This achieves continuity.                                                                                    RHYTHM                                                                                                                      The rhythm should be even and steady with no jerkiness that would disturb the routine. The rate may be slow for relaxation or faster for more stimulation. Some therapists find music a help to set a mood but care must be taken not to try to fit the movements to the music.(Care should also be taken to check that the choice of music does not irritate the client) DEPTH                                                                                                                           The depth of massage should be appropriate to the needs and physical state of the client. The depth of massage used for a young, fit person should be different from that used on someone who was elderly and frail. However it should be remembered that most people prefer a firm massage and that in the initial treatment the client’s reactions and opinions should be sought and recorded for future reference. The depth of the massage is altered by using the weight of your body effectively, so the posture and stance of the therapist is of vital importance in performing effective massage                                                                                                                               

BENEFITS OF MASSAGE                                                       

• Massage stimulates the blood supply which brings fresh nutrients and oxygen to the muscles and removes waste products.
• Helps to reduce tired overused, strained or tensed muscles.
• Helps to maintain the elasticity of muscle fibres
• Helps to reduce adhesions in muscle tissue which may have developed following injury
• Stimulates the flow of lymph, removing excess fluid from the tissues helping with weight loss.
• Reduces generalised swelling in the tissues
• Increased flexibility
• Improved range of movements
• Helps relieve stress and gives mental relaxation