Many people are aware of the stress-reducing relaxation response that a professional massage elicits, but don't realize the positive effects that it has on virtually every system of the body.

Massage acts like an auxiliary heart, increasing the amount of blood flow by ten times, especially venous return flow. It also lowers arterial blood pressure by dilating arteries and increases the movement of oxygen, carbon dioxide and red and white blood cells.

It moves lactic acid and toxins out of the tissues and shortens recovery time for athletes. It also aids the underactive person by its milking effect on the muscles, and allows tendons and ligaments to move more freely by removing fibrous tissue, as well as softening and elasticizing the skin.

Massage eases breathing difficulties by loosening mucous, and increases by five times the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. It also increases the rate of digestion in both the small and large intestine and speeds the flow of bile for the digestion of fats.

It mechanically moves colonic waste and moves retained fluids through the abdomen into the kidneys and bladder.

No longer thought of as just a luxury item for the rich and famous, more and more people are realizing that, in today's somewhat stressful world, massage therapy is a useful health maintenance tool.

There are more than a few different forms of massage therapy and related bodywork to choose from, and a newcomer might find the terminology included in advertising confusing.

Some of the more commonly seen varieties of massage therapy in this area are:

Swedish Massage uses a system of long strokes, kneading and friction techniques on the more superficial layers of the muscles, combined with passive movements of the joints. Probably the best known form of massage, it promotes general relaxation, improves circulation and range of motion and relieves muscle tension.

Shiatsu and Acupressure are Oriental systems of finger pressure massage which treat points on the acupuncture meridians - the channels in the body along which a person's vital energy or "qi" flows. Blocked energy along these channels can cause physical discomfort, the aim is to release these blocks and balance the energy flow.

Trigger Point Therapy applies concentrated finger pressure to "trigger points"- painful, irritated areas in the muscles that often refer pain to other areas - in order to disperse them and relieve the cycle of spasm and pain.

When looking for a massage therapist, make sure the person is licensed/registered by the state. It is also recommended that the therapist be a member of a national organization, such as the AMTA ( American Massage Therapy Association ) which requires a high standard from it's members, including ongoing education.