Massage is defined as the rubbing or kneading of body parts to aid circulation, stimulate nerves or relax the muscles. However, when massages are used for physical and psychological benefits, it is termed therapeutic message or manipulative therapy. Massage therapy often combines massage and the channeling of energy into a balanced, unblocked, transferred, harmonized and tuned-up state.

In massage therapy, a therapist conducts motion and muscle tests and proposes treatment plans such as soft tissue manipulation, hydrotherapy, remedial exercise programs and client self-help programs. Most therapists also provide courses of treatment for medical conditions and injuries, and may work with other healthcare professionals as part of a team to promote health and overall wellness.

Most massage therapy has developed from a number of sources and there are an estimated 150 types of massage therapy that one can try. Some of the popular massage therapies are breema, chair massage, Chinese Tui Na massage, deep muscle therapy, deep tissue massage, foot or sole massage, traditional Hawaiian massage, myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, scalp massage, stone massage, Thai massage, and Swedish massage, among others. Most therapy massages can be performed with pressure ranging from superficial to deep; however, an ideal therapeutic massage can be identified when a receiver experiences some discomfort, activating the bodys natural healing response. Although most therapeutic massage leaves some soreness, it is recommended to check with your therapist if the soreness lasts more than two or three days.

Massage therapy is an organized business and most countries have specific organizations that provide information regarding the therapy. In the US, the American Massage Therapy Association is the largest non-profit professional organization of massage therapists in the country. One can also undertake a test to be a professional massage therapist, conducted by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.