The Massage Book: 25th Anniversary Edition

"The Massage Book" is a classic for good reason. Everything you need to know in order to give a truly outstanding, tension-releasing full-body massage is covered in the book. It begins with concise information on practicalities such as what type (and how much) oil to use, and how to work at a massage table without becoming sore or tired. Don't have a table? No problem. This book shows how to use the floor, or build a basic portable table if you're so inclined. The author does not cover specialized techniques such as deep tissue work or shiatsu, which require professional training (to avoid injuring). The style presented in "The Massage Book" is one which is used by a large percentage of professional massage therapists to produce a deeply satisfying, relaxing massage. The main body of the book is a well-written and illustrated set of instructions covering approximately eighty massage strokes. The instructions are exceptionally clear and easy to follow. Important: you'll learn how to hold your friend's body so their limbs do not flap about as you lift them to move through the strokes. You can apply the strokes in the exact order they are presented, or mix them differently. The techniques presented have served me well for the past fifteen years. My massage therapist friends beg me to work on them. Learn from this book, and you too can have the power to make otherwise rational humans beg and drool for your attentions.

* Reviewing the 1978 British Penguin edition *

Short version -

This is a book you can take anywhere and use on just about anyone with ease and effectiveness.

Long version -

I bought this book years ago in a second-hand bookstore and it has since followed me and my partner around the world. I have filled bookshelves in 3 continents and this book has accompanied me on every move, along with my $5 traveller's health book that is indispensable.

This is a book I constantly dip into, and I've used the techniques described on various people very successfully. It is written simply and well, with tips like "use your weight rather than your muscles to apply pressure" which have been very useful for a small person like me. It also shows you how to prepare yourself and the person you are massaging, which I find paramount to giving/ getting a good massage wherever you are.

One of my favourite things about this book is the design and layout the book falls open easily without threatening to close on you, and with its large font and simple illustrations, you can easily read and then follow the instructions on the pages. As such, our book is smeared with massage oil from flipping the pages as we go along.

I have not managed to find another book that is this compact, useful and practical. There is no weight/ space lost on large glossy photos or describing redundant strokes that you will never use. If you are interested in massage, there are sections on making up new strokes, easing tension, foot reflexology and further study as well.

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I have a read a lot of books on massage and in my opinion this is the best general book on the subject, despite the lack of glossy photos and other special extras that often don't add much value when push comes to shove.

This book emphasizes techniques, how to connect different sequences to each other and important general principles. In a short space, it gives you what you really need to know to give a great massage.

The specific techniques presented are the most important ones and they are explained clearly. After reading this enjoyable book, you will be able to give an excellent massage with confidence in what you're doing.

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If you have never done massage before and pick up this book you can learn to do it easily. If you have learnt massage before and pick up this book you will learn more. Not only are the descriptions clear and simple but the illustrations show you clearly how to do even the more complex massage strokes.

On top off all that the book is written in an informative but not dictarial manner. Downing describes techniques and approaches and lets you (and your massage partner) make an informed choice as to how you will do it.

I learnt massage from this book along with many other people. A highly recommended purchase.

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Is there a better book on how to give a massage? I think not. I bought my first copy of this book in 1976 and have replaced it twice (people keep borrowing it and moving away!). In 23 years of practicing massage on my friends and family I have yet to find a book that teaches more clearly. Anne Kent Rush's illustrations and George Downing's words are perfect compliments for each other.

I have given this book as a gift countless times over the years and each time my thoughtfulness has been appreciated with repeated "thank yous" as they learn just how wonderful massage can be.

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