Massage is one of the most natural ways to de-stress the human body. With the increasing physical and emotional pressures of modern living making relentless demands on the body, it is an effective way to reduce strain and alleviate pain, as well as prevent sporting or performing injuries. This practical and informative guide is aimed at all those who want to make the most of the universal benefits of the power of touch, from Shiatsu to inversion therapy. The guide covers: the background, development and rationale of massage; the wide range of massage treatments available, from Western methods to Eastern techniques; self-help massage as an aid to relaxation and recovery from fatigue; the use of massage to combat stress; and a comprehensive reference section.