The benefits of a soothing rubdown are priceless -- and timeless -- so it's no wonder massage has been around since ancient times. The Chinese are often credited with creating the earliest form of massage around 3000 BC; India is also known for its long use of massage. In the 6th century AD, the Japanese further developed the art to manipulate energy within the body.

Although rooted in Eastern tradition, massage eventually traveled westward to the ancient Greeks and Romans. When the Roman Empire fell, however, massage, like many medical and scientific practices, became suspect. Eventually resurfacing in Europe during the Renaissance, it continued to evolve as a form of healing. But it wasn't until the 19th century that Swedish massage -- the most popular technique in the United States today -- was developed, combining modern principles of physiology with ancient techniques.

Since World War II, massage has enjoyed ever-growing popularity. Nowadays, thanks to strict industry standards and licensing of practitioners, massage is a commonly accepted form of alternative -- as well as traditional -- medicine. Many people rely on massage to maintain good health and energy, to prevent and cure illness, and for simple relief from stress and other consequences of life in the 21st century.