The beginnings of massage date back to ancient times. The book "Kong-fu", which was written in 2698 B. C., describes exercises and provides knowledge on massage. It is known that Herodicus of Selymbria, the teacher of Hippocrates, did daily exercises.

Classical massage is a treatment technique which affects the body as a mechanical irritant. It employs various techniques such as caressing, rubbing, kneading and vibration when the tissues are irritated slightly, moderately or vigorously, which intensifies the flow of the tissue liquids (lymph, blood), facilitates the rejuvenation of the body following physical and mental exercises, strengthens the immune system etc.

Many muscle groups of the human body perform mutually opposite (antagonistic) movements. By stretching and moving the tissues, it is possible to eliminate the lack of coordination (imbalance) of movements between the muscles-antagonists, for example, abductor and flexor muscle of the hand, as well as between stereotype muscles, for example, the same group of spinal muscles on both sides of the body. It is not only the local effect but also the neuroreflectory effect that is important, as the mechanical irritation is transformed into the signals carrying this information further to the nerve centers both in the spinal cord and brain. Relaxing effect of the massage is also very important.

Classical massage, when combined with passive exercising (the elements of yoga and TAI) can increase the range of movements of the muscle in the joint, correct the muscle tone, eliminate the imbalance between the stereotype muscles and the antagonists as well as reduce the agglutination, thickening, and shortening of the fibrous tissue membranes (fascia) of muscles in sedentary people.

In our Center, classical massage is performed by certified masseur Didzis Purvins.