Therapeutic massage has entered the mainstream of preventative healthcare. In record numbers, people are seeking this ancient therapy to address physical pain and a wide spectrum of symptoms associated with stress. In addition, insurance companies have recognized the benefit of massage as a method of maintaining good health and now offer member discounts on all types of bodywork.
As massage becomes a popular way to address pain and suffering, the need for skilled therapists has increased. In response to that need, massage schools have become a popular destination for those seeking to redirect careers.
Finger Lakes School of Massage in Westchester County is one of the premier educational institutes of therapeutic massage. FLSM offers a culturally rich and vibrant community with curriculum that mirrors the depth of programs found in New York City massage schools complemented by the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley.
Therapeutic Massage: Definition and History
According to the New York State Board of Education, the practice of massage therapy is described as “engaging in applying a scientific system of activity to the muscular structure of the human body for the purpose of improving muscle tone and circulation.”
These words attempt to describe a hands-on therapy that is one of the oldest among all methods of healing. As far back as the 4th century B.C., Hippocrates, known as the “father of medicine,” mentioned massage in his writing.
As one of the original physicians of our times, Hippocrates knew that touch could produce physiological benefits. Centuries later, massage has become one of the primary preventative health care methods. The ancient techniques described by Hippocrates have been repeatedly refined over the years and are now a part of the curriculum at Finger Lakes School of Massage in Westchester County.
Massage Benefits
The cumulative effect of receiving a massage goes beyond the simple miracle of touch. There are physical, mental and emotional benefits keyed into action through the millions of sensory receptors in the skin. And this all translates into a significant number of tangible results:
- deep relaxation and reduced stress
- relief of muscle tension, stiffness, spasm and pain
- better circulation of both blood and lymph
- faster recovery from muscle strains and sprains
- reduced blood pressure
- greater joint flexibility and range of motion
- improved immune function
Who doesn’t need all this to simply navigate each day in our tension-filled, on-the-go culture? At Finger Lakes School of Massage in Westchester County, the curriculum includes instruction in the science underlying massage benefits, as well as hands-on training in the many forms of bodywork necessary to be successful in this professional path.
