This work explores the history of massage as it pertains to cultural perspectives, including religious rite and ritual, exercise and movement programs, spas, sanitariums, midwifery, nursing, and sports. It provides an interesting and fascinating narrative that begins with a look at history from the perspective of how massage has been defined in different cultures and different times. It further explores the role of massage in the shamanic tradition, perhaps the most ancient of healing practices. It explores the use of massage in different regions of the ancient world and through to more modern times, where it has gained widespread acceptance even in more technocratic societies as a legitimate healing method that can relieve suffering and foster beneficial relationships. As the author states, "The true value of massage comes from the inherent need of humans to have contact with one another." Here is a narrative that will both inform and inspire.

Robert Noah Calvert's History Of Massage is an informative and illustrated history covers massage techniques and rituals from around the world through the ages, from its ongoing medical use as a therapy and curative to the varying techniques for addressing different illnesses and needs. A fascinating coverage of the evolution of massage techniques.

This book skirts some of the main,interesting aspects of the Constitution and opts to pursue a very narrowly defined notion of civil society. Great for outdated Artistotelians, but it's a barely justifiable read for anyone truly interested in a multi-perspective examination of the document. It's a very 50s take on things.