History records the prevalence of the full body massage as a regular feature of ancient civilizations - Hellenic, Egyptian, Roman, and Asian. Even then, centuries ago, a massage could not be administered by just anyone. Social historians say that the masseur or masseuse had a status somewhere between a physician and a priest in ancient Egypt. This esteem was well deserved, because the massage requires specialized training to be performed properly and correctly.

The benefits of a full body massage are many.

Massage as a therapeutic technique springs from the concept of 'touch therapy'. This concept says that humans benefit tremendously form being touched. Babies who receive a lot of fondling in the days immediately following their birth are well and healthy. Damaged muscle fibers heal quicker when they are massaged properly. The blood circulation is stimulated by a massage, leading to overall better health and cell development. The lymphatic system, which is closely associated with the circulatory system, is also stimulated. This in turn enhances our immune system. The usual effect of a massage is an invigoratingly restorative one, which means that you get rested in such a wonderful way that you feel fresh and full of pep and energy!

Never had a full body massage before? It is a truly wonderful experience, as we'll describe below.

A visit to a massage parlor can cost you between $50 and $100 for an hour long session by a licensed masseuse. The cost is well worth the experience. In the private cabin that you'll be assigned, you'll have to remove your clothes and lie face down on a massage table. An assistant will drape a sheet over you, as much for warmth as for modesty. The part being massaged will be uncovered and when that's been massaged it will be covered up and the next portion will be uncovered. The masseuse will gently massage the body, using a massage oil, maybe, to help her fingers slide smoothly over the muscles. Aromatic oils may be mixed in with the massage oil for added aroma therapeutic effect.

It is common for the masseuse to begin the massage at the feet and then work her way up, past the legs, up to the hips. You will feel the warmth generated by her hands flowing into the muscles, relaxing each fiber, untwisting the veins and arteries, nerves and tendons and ligaments. There are a number of methods of massage. You should let the massage therapist select the one that is best for you. When you have had ten or more massages, you'll be experienced enough to make your own choice!

From the hips her hands will move over the back, the arms and shoulders, the neck, and finally the head.

Massaging generates a little heat inside the body which heals the body from the inside. Thus therapeutic heat is generated right at the spot where it is needed. This process of internal healing is wonderfully restorative. There is just one thing you must be careful about: don't visit any of these shady massage parlors. Ask around before selecting one to give your custom to. Insist on being massaged by a professional masseuse who has undergone a rigorous training and passed a state-approved examination before being licensed to practice in public. This is to make sure that you are not harmed in any way. So, see you at the massage parlor!