The History of Massage Therapy

The relaxation, peacefulness, connecting with your body—who doesn’t love a massage? When it comes to self-care, massages are high on the list of recommendations. But how did massages come to be, and become so popular?

The history of the massage is as rich and complex as the soothing aromas you’ll experience during one.

According to Encyclopedia.com, the first known record of massage therapy dates back more than 4,000 years ago in medical texts in China. The Father of Medicine, Hippocrates, wrote about massage in the fourth century B.C., though he referred to it as “rubbing.” However, the modern version of massage we now know and love was introduced by the Swede, Per Henrik Ling, between 1700 and 1800.

Massage made its journey from Sweden to the United States in the 1850s via physicians and brothers George and Charles Taylor. After the Civil War, Doctor Baron Nils Posse and Doctor Hartwig Nissen each opened their own massage therapy clinic—one in Boston and another in Washington D.C.

Since the 1960s, massage has become a popular way to find relaxation during our busy, demanding lives. Now there are dozens of different massage types including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, aromatherapy massage, pregnancy massage, hot stone massage, sports massage couples massage, de-knotting neck and back treatments and more!

No matter which one you choose, you’re sure to come out feeling calm and rejuvenated.

From 4,000 years ago to present day, massage has helped with anxiety, sore muscles and a myriad of issues. Plus, it simply makes you feel good! Now that you know the history of the massage, make sure to call us at Sewickley Spa to book yours.