Much like Music and Art, Massage therapy is a very broad, highly subjective and ambiguous term. Massage therapy like the two hemispheres of the brain, is comprised of two parts: it's both an art form and science. To add to the confusion of creating definitions of what a Massage Therapist is/should be and what makes a good massage great, Therapists have found homes in a wide variety of venues from hospitals and Chiropractor's offices to gyms and spas.
The artistic side is comprised more of sense of feel and intuition rather than governed by pure logic. The therapist may not be able to fully explain how or why they do something or work a particular area of the body; and often times the therapist is "lead"or "drawn" to somewhere because of this feeling.
Typically the artistic side is seen as having more of a sense of flow and has often been compared to the artistry of a dance. This work relies on the therapists ability to access their humanistic, compassionate awareness and although in many cases this element is an innate quality; through work and intention it can be developed. This type of work can be very helpful in a situation where someone is seeking comfort or relaxation and is most frequently an Event massage.
Whereas the science portion is more oriented in the analytic side of things; the "hows" and "whys" of massage therapy. It's concerned with the physiologic principals behind the technical strokes and how those techniques impact the body; it's steeped in anatomy, physiology and kinesiology.
It is in this capacity that the therapist plays the role of detective, assessing what might be involved, why, what not do, and any technical adaptations that may be required for the given situation. Often this side of therapy is very useful to those suffering from repetitive strain injuries, chronic or acute pain, or pathology: and it is a Process endeavor, usually requiring multiple sessions for optimal results.
The science side of massage therapy is not an innate quality and is similar to many Martial Arts and Dance forms in this way: while one can reproduce the technical abilities quite well, the understanding of the philosophy behind the technique is more elusive and requires commitment, dedication, study and experience to fully access its enlightenment.
During my time as a Therapist I have been fortunate enough to witness, study, receive and learn from people who are very gifted in both the Artistic side of therapy and its Scientific counterpart. They are fluent in both sides of massage therapy and fully capable of adapting, blending and weaving between both sides at will and as dictated by the receiver and the situation (something that I look for in my therapist).
While what makes a good massage great will differ from receiver to receiver and time to time, a common thread elevating a good session to a great one (like in any great art work) is the application of knowledge and intention. The key is to determine what you're looking for as a receiver and to communicate that need with your therapist.
Thanks and stay well!
http://myelitemassagetherapy.com/
http://myelitemassagetherapy.com/
