masaj

Masaj is the practice of manipulating soft tissues of the body through manual techniques to promote relaxation, relieve pain, improve circulation, and support overall well-being. The term masaj is a loanword used in Turkish and in several other languages for the same practice, broadly known in many cultures as massage.

Techniques and modalities vary by tradition and purpose. Swedish massage employs long gliding strokes, kneading, tapping, and pressure to ease muscle tension. Deep tissue massage targets deeper muscle layers and connective tissue. Sports massage is tailored for athletes to support performance and recovery. Thai massage combines pressure points with assisted stretching and rhythmic pressures. Shiatsu uses finger pressure along energy pathways, and other approaches may include hot stone therapy or aromatherapy, often as adjuncts to classic bodywork.

Practice and safety are important considerations. Massage is typically performed by trained therapists in clinics, spas, or wellness centers. Sessions commonly last 30 to 90 minutes and may involve oils or lotions. Regulations and licensing differ by country or region, with professional standards emphasizing informed consent, ethical boundaries, and hygiene. Contraindications include contagious skin conditions, open wounds, recent surgery, acute injuries, certain medical conditions, or pregnancy in some cases; clients are advised to discuss medical history with the therapist and seek medical advice when appropriate. Clear communication about comfort and pressure helps reduce risk of injury.

History and scope. Massage-like techniques appear in many ancient cultures, including Egypt, China, and India. In the modern era, Western-style massage developed in the 19th century, notably through the Swedish tradition, and has since diversified into numerous schools and modalities, reflecting regional practices and contemporary wellness trends.