"The health care provider of the future will give no 
     medicines, but will interest his patients in diet and 
     exercise and the prevention of disease."    Thomas Edison

History of Massage
Massage is one of the oldest healing arts.  Chinese records dating back over 3,000 years document it's use.  The ancient Hindus, Persians  and  Egyptians applied many forms of massage for a variety of ailments.  Hippocrates wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction massage for joint and circulatory problems.  In the US today, massage is mainstream in 3 specific areas.  It is used for de-stressing and relaxation, is a significant part of spa therapy, and is readily accepted as a part of many rehabilitation programs for better health.  A very brief historical timeline is listed below.  If you would like a more in-depth glimpse into the history of massage, please contact me!

3000 BC - 44 BC - The Chinese, Egyptians, Romans and Greeks are all known to have used some forms of massage and bodywork for relief of health issues.  All of these cultures left documentations of their findings.
100 AD - 1499 – Schools for massage are developed in china during the first few centuries, and by the 13th century, pediatric (children's) massage has begun to evolve.
1500-1800 - Various physicians and healers through self study and observation develop massage techniques to benefit patients.  A few publish their works, raising awareness of bodywork in Europe.   
1800-1899 - Massage therapy moves into the Eastern United States through famous physicians and leaders of the day, gaining recognition and reputation as an alternative to more traditional medicine.  Publishing advances allow more access to information on techniques and popularity spreads.
1900-1939 - Massage continues to gain momentum and validity with Americans, as such respected doctors as Freud, Voder, Alexander & Feldencrais, develop specialized forms of bodywork for specific conditions.  Massage is found in hospitals, on the battle field, in athletics, doctors offices and the home. 
1940-2004 - Massage Therapy Associations are formed to promote better public awareness, allow for more cohesiveness in training, and sharing of information.  Physicians continue to develop specialized protocals for illnesses.  Publications about massage number in the hundreds of thousands.  Media coverage crosses all barriers, and endorsements from such well known names as Chopra, Weil (and even Dr. Phil), and organizations such as the AARP, bring massage therapy well into the alternative healthcare field. 
2004 and beyond -  As acceptance of Massage Therapy continues within society, within the alternative healthcare field and in the more traditional medical field, massage seems to be evolving into three main branches: Spa Massage, Relaxation Massage and Therapeutic Massage.  To learn more about these, click on "About Massage".