Most massages have common traits – a therapist applies pressure to areas of the body to relax or manipulate. The overall goal is the well-being of the patient receiving the massage treatment.
While there are various types of massages, they all come at a price. Finding the most affordable can be a challenge. The cost varies in a wide range, and largely is determined by where the massage will occur, the skill level of the masseuse, and the length of the anticipated treatment. A massage in Beverly Hills likely will cost more than one in the San Fernando Valley. Why? Location, location, location, as they say in real estate.
Keep in mind that price isn’t everything. The cheapest massage may not be as wonderful as the one administered by a fully licensed and trained therapist. It’s not unlike buying meat by the pound rather than the quality – sure, you can find the most affordable massage, but will it be the best massage?
The word massage is French in origin and means “friction of kneading,” which is what recipients experience. It can be applied to almost every part of the body, including the elbows, knees, feet, hands, back, fingers and forearms. It can be performed by hands or with a mechanical massage device. Both are effective in achieving the goal of relaxing the patient and assisting with relieving stress or pain.
There is evidence of the practice of massages dating back to ancient civilizations in India, China, Japan, Korea, Egypt and Rome, among other locations. As far back as 2330 BC, there are cave drawings that seem to depict massages being administered to feet and hands.