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A Deep
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The deepest Portland massage experience.

+ 1-200hz Sound Infused Massage Table

+ Amethyst Infrared Heat

+ Crystal Weighted Blanket

+ Deep Healing Hemp

+ Hot Towel Aromatherapy

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A Brief History of Massage: From Ancient Times to the Present Day

Massage has been used for thousand of years across many cultures. Some cultures include Egypt, China, India and even greece, In these cultures, massage was used not only to treat physical ailments but also to promote relaxation, balance energy, and enhance spiritual wellbeing. Over time, techniques have been developed by different cultures based around different scientific and spiritual discoveries about the inner workings of the body. This has resulted in a wide variety of different types of massage from around the world. At present, massage represents a pinnacle of the blend of modern science and ancient spirituality that is used and recognized by many as a way of healing the body, and making sure that pain doesn’t come back.

 

The Roots of Massage Therapy in Ancient Cultures



Originally, it’s thought that the roots of Swedish massage, one of the most well recognized types of massage has it’s roots in Tui Na, an ancient form of Chinese Massage, which dates back several thousand years. It’s said that Egyptians used massage as a form of energy healing for both the living and dead. In India, the practice of Ayurvedic massage dates back thousands of years, with practitioners using various oils and techniques to balance the body’s energies and promote overall health. Similarly, doctors in Greece and Rome used massage to alleviate pain from injuries and reduce stress while improving relaxation. These practices laid the roots for what we know as massage today in the present day as a well known healing modality.

Massage in Ancient Egypt: Techniques and Benefits



Massage therapy was highly valued in ancient Egypt and was considered a sacred practice that could promote both physical and spiritual healing. The Egyptians believed that massage had the power to release trapped energy and promote the flow of life force through the body. They also believed that massage could help to remove toxins, reduce inflammation, and promote relaxation. Egyptians used herbs, and massage to heal the body by using what we consider traditional massage techniques by pressing, rubbing the body to encourage the flow of this life energy. Massage, like present the present-day toothbrush, was a daily practice by Egyptians as it was known to heal the body by alleviating pain and improving flexibility. Today, these ancient massage techniques are still highly regarded for their therapeutic benefits and are commonly used in modern massage therapy practices.


The Art of Massage in Ancient Greece and Rome



Massage in ancient Greece and Rome was used to treat emotional disturbances in the body as well as physical. In Greece, massage was commonly used to treat athletes and soldiers, helping to reduce pain and promote healing after rigorous physical activity. It was also used as a relaxation technique, with Greeks using oils and herbs to enhance the therapeutic benefits of massage. In Rome, massage was often practiced by slaves and was seen as a luxury enjoyed by the wealthy. Roman and Greek massage techniques, like Egyptian ones, also used herbs and oils to soothe the body and heal the mind. It paved the way for massage to be a respected form of healthcare that developed into modern massage practices as we see today.



The Origins of Thai Massage: Ancient Techniques from Southeast Asia



Thai massage is thought to be over 2,500 years old. The stretching and yoga like movements in Thai massage has it’s roots in Ayurveda and was thought to be developed by monks who wanted to heal the bodies of people by easing the emotional and physical bodies. Thai therapists often use techniques similar to acupressure and energy work while using their hands feet and body to stretch the recipient into various postures. The practice is often performed on a mat on the floor, with the recipient wearing loose clothing to allow for ease of movement. Thai massage to this day is known for it’s ability to treat chronic pain, return the body to it’s natural flow of energy and improve flexibility.

The Role of Massage in Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Historical Overview



Massage has been used in China for over 2,000 years, and it can be traced back to the Han Dynasty, more than 200BCE! In Chinese medicine, massage is known as Tuina or Anmo and is used to promote the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), or life force energy, through the body’s meridians. Often known as acupressure massage, Tuina is also much more. It focuses on soft tissue, and bone throughout the body, and works by balancing the energy systems and organs of the body by making sure there is a good flow of energy throughout the body’s systems.

Ayurvedic Massage: A Time-Honored Practice from India



Massage has been used in China for over 2,000 years, and it can be traced back to the Han Dynasty, more than 200BCE! In Chinese medicine, massage is known as Tuina or Anmo and is used to promote the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”), or life force energy, through the body’s meridians. Often known as acupressure massage, Tuina is also much more. It focuses on soft tissue, and bone throughout the body, and works by balancing the energy systems and organs of the body by making sure there is a good flow of energy throughout the body’s systems.

Native American Massage: Healing Touches from the First Nations



Native American massage has been used for thousands of years by indigenous practitioners using hands, elbows and feet applied to areas of pain and discomfort. By stretching the body, doing energy work, they have worked on muscle and joint pain as well as emotional and spiritual imbalances. Practitioners believe that the massage helps to restore balance to the body’s energy system and promote overall health and wellbeing. They often used music, oils and herbs to enhance healing. Today, Native American massage is still practiced by indigenous healers and is increasingly recognized as a valuable form of alternative therapy.

Historical Evidence of Massage in Medieval Europe



While massage has been around for thousands of years, in Mideval Europe, it’s less clear how it was used. However, there are some examples of documentation that suggests massage was used throughout this time period. For example, there was a doctor by the name of Albertus Magnus, who lived in the 13th century who documented the benefits of massage for headaches, and joint pain. Other medieval texts mention massage in passing, indicating that it was a known practice at the time. Additionally, some medieval paintings depict individuals receiving massage or manipulating their own muscles, suggesting that massage was a part of everyday life for some people.


How Massage Evolved in Modern Times: From Medical Treatment to Relaxation Practice


Massage has undergone a significant evolution in modern times, transitioning from a primarily medical treatment to a relaxation practice. As the modern day has come upon us, physicians used massage to treat digestive issues, nervous system issues and muscle pain. Today, massage therapy is often associated with spas and wellness centers, and is viewed as a way to unwind and pamper oneself. Massage is still used to alleviate pain and recover from injury, and with modern stress of the computer age has been an exceptional way for people to get relief from discomfort in their bodies. The evolution of massage over time recognizes the merging of both the ancient and modern techniques, and will continue to change as our culture modernizes and science advances.

 

Author: Mason Palmer

Founder / Massage Therapist

IMMERSE Modern Massage

Mason is a master massage therapist in Portland, Oregon, with over 10,000 hours of hands on work. His expertise in deep tissue anatomy, myofascial release, and trauma-informed somatic therapy. He is also a 200-hour certified yoga instructor and has received Reiki Master level training from three different schools. Mason has explored various healing practices, including Mindfulness Meditation, Personal Training, Yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Ayurveda, and Chinese medicine, for over a decade. He is the author of “Energy Healing, One Truth Many Teachers” and is known for his proven track record for creating plans of care for his clients to overcome pain and discomfort in their body, and to make sure that pain doesn’t come back.

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At IMMERSE Massage Portland,

Our mission is to help you relieve the stress, tension, and pain that degrades your quality of life so you can be the very best version you, body and mind.

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IMMERSE Massage Morrison - Best Massage Portland Oregon IconIMMERSE Massage Morrison – Best Massage Portland Oregon

819 Southeast Morrison Street Suite 215, Portland

4.9 108 reviews

  • Avatar Olivia Guethling ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    Mason is awesome! I just had an amazing massage experience and loved it. He attentively addressed the tension spots in my body and worked through them. The massage table vibrates synced up to the meditative music which was sooo relaxing … More and helped me be super dropped into the moment. The weighted blanket and the warm scented towels were another highlight. Highly recommend. Thank you, Mason!
  • Avatar adria mooney ★★★★★ 4 months ago
    Entering the space I immediately felt calm, the lighting and ambiance was perfect for relaxing. The warmth, low light and wooden ceiling made me feel like I was in a sauna. Mason greeted me and made me feel comfortable as we entered the … More massage room. The bed was heated, with weighted blanket and calming music vibrated the entire bed. I melted away as mason massaged my whole body, taking care to leave me mostly covered under the warm blanket the entire time. He also used heated towels and a wonderful essential oil blend. I felt truly relaxed and my whole body vibrated with warmth and comfort. Would definitely come back again!
  • Avatar Tracy A ★★★★★ 6 months ago
    Such a lovely experience from beginning to end. The lobby was beautifully decorated with plants, and Mason greeted me with such warmth. The table vibrates with music and is so comfortable and warm. The weighted blankets helped me feel so … More cozy and relaxed. The technique and grounded presence Mason offers is excellent. I especially enjoyed the warm scented towel on my face and neck at the end of the massage. So rejuvenating and relaxing. I felt calm and peaceful. Wholeheartedly recommend!
  • Avatar Kelsey Koll ★★★★★ a year ago
    Wow! My massage with Mason was healing on so many levels! He addressed the spots of tension and diligently worked to remind my muscles that it’s okay to relax. He was very attentive to my needs and comfort.
    Immerse is definitely an appropriate
    … More name for this space as you are enveloped in delightfully warm infrared heat (through amethyst crystals!), the soothing sounds of a waterfall, and a sound bath of vibrations coming directly from the table!
    The thoughtful intention put in to making Immerse Modern Massage the healing environment that is it is apparent and very much appreciated!
  • Avatar Jordan Cohen ★★★★★ 5 months ago
    Wow! Walking into Immerse Modern Massage, my entire body immediately relaxed right at the front door. The aromatherapy is so intoxicating and soothing, and the ambiance is very nice. Walking into the treatment room was even better. They … More really did such a good job with the place! Not to mention the massage table! Omg, it felt so incredible to be sandwiched in between healing frequencies, warmth, and high vibrations. I can’t wait to go back!!! I was impressed to say the least.

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