The art of body massage and the use of natural oils is one of the oldest healing methods in human history and has been practiced in many cultures for thousands of years. Body massage with oil is not only used for relaxation, but also to relieve pain, promote blood circulation and lymph flow and improve general well-being.
Massage techniques from around the world
In ancient Egypt, massages were part of medical treatments; oils and ointments facilitated the massage and enhanced the healing properties.
In China, the roots of massage date back to 2700 BC. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) integrates massage techniques such as Tuina and acupressure to promote the balance of Yin and Yang in the body. These techniques are often used in combination with other TCM practices such as acupuncture and herbal medicine.
In India, massage has been an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine – the science of life – for 5000 years. Ayurvedic massages use warm oils and specific movements to balance the doshas in the body and support its self-healing powers.
Massage also played an important role in ancient Greece and Rome. The Greeks, in particular Hippocrates, who is considered the ‘father of medicine’, recommended massages to treat various ailments. The Romans adopted many of the Greek practices and integrated massages into their spa culture.
In the 19th century, the Swedish doctor Per Henrik Ling developed Swedish massage, which is one of the best-known massage techniques today. Ling combined the techniques of the ancient Greeks and Romans with his own knowledge of anatomy and physiology. Swedish massage comprises five main techniques: effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), friction (rubbing), tapotement (tapping) and vibration.
The Japanese massage technique Shiatsu is based on the principles of TCM. It was developed at the beginning of the 20th century by Tokujiro Namikoshi and emphasizes the application of pressure to specific points along the meridians in order to harmonize the energy (Ki) in the body. Shiatsu is often used in combination with Western massage techniques.
From Hawaii we know the Lomi Lomi Nui massage, also known as the queen of massages. Long, flowing movements in combination with warm oils are said to purify the body, mind and soul.
It is not for nothing that we at elewa natural beauty emphasize this:
Everything that touches your skin also touches your soul.®
Our body oils are based on African oils, which are known for their valuable ingredients. Rich in vitamins, such as vitamin E and C, minerals and omega fatty acids, they provide the skin with optimal care and can:
- Counteract premature skin ageing
- Improve skin quality
- Strengthen the skin barrier
Infused with selected fragrances, they appeal to body, mind and soul in equal measure.
