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Title: Massage & Exercises Combined: A permanent physical culture course for men, women and children: health-giving, vitalizing, prophylactic, beautifying : a new system of the characteristic essentials of gymnastic and Indian Yogis concentration exercises combined with scientific massage movements: with 86 illustrations and deep breathing exercises
Author: Jensen, Albrecht
Language: English
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COMBINED ***
[Illustration: THE AUTHOR]
MASSAGE & EXERCISES
COMBINED
A PERMANENT PHYSICAL
CULTURE COURSE FOR MEN
WOMEN AND CHILDREN
HEALTH-GIVING, VITALIZING
PROPHYLACTIC, BEAUTIFYING
A NEW SYSTEM OF THE CHARACTERISTIC
ESSENTIALS OF GYMNASTIC AND INDIAN
YOGIS CONCENTRATION EXERCISES COMBINED
WITH SCIENTIFIC MASSAGE MOVEMENTS
_WITH 86 ILLUSTRATIONS
AND
DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES_
BY
ALBRECHT JENSEN
FORMERLY IN CHARGE OF MEDICAL MASSAGE CLINICS AT
POLYCLINIC HOSPITAL AND OTHER HOSPITALS, NEW YORK
1920
NEW YORK, N. Y.
COPYRIGHT 1920
BY
ALBRECHT JENSEN
_All Rights Reserved_
Printed by Brooks & Porter
New York
_The human body is like a chain—it is only as strong as its weakest link._
_The strength of the body is destroyed by violence and idleness, but
preserved by exercise._
_Big muscles do not always indicate vitality or good health; many
so-called strong men have died comparatively young. Vitality is rather
agility of mind and body and the ability of the latter to withstand and
repulse attacks of disease._
_Good health is the best heritage parents can transmit to their
children._
PREFACE
In this volume I have endeavored to place before the public a novel
method of real scientific massage movements combined with exercises, so
that the benefits of both may be obtained simultaneously.
The simplicity of its technic together with its ready personal
application make it possible for any individual to achieve excellent
results from its use.
The application of scientific massage movements stimulates the
nerves, tissues, muscles, organs, vessels, glands and cells much more
beneficially and effectively than general exercises. Their combined
application is physical culture in its most scientific and perfected form.
In working out a practical presentation of this system, it was noted that
the massage movements and the most beneficial exercises could be combined
readily and simply (although this must be done in a prescribed way)
and that their balanced, logical combination resulted in a method far
superior to all other systems of exercises, not only for the maintenance
of health, but for special therapeutic and physiologic purposes.
The exercises are chiefly intended for use at home, and will be found
to be more advantageous to the individual than any course of physical
culture offered anywhere. No gymnastic equipment is necessary and no
expenditure, save that of the time required, which will vary mostly from
twelve to twenty-five minutes daily according to the time, need and
inclination of the individual.
ALBRECHT JENSEN,
New York.
* * * * *
DR. WILLIAM SHARPE
20 West 50th Street,
New York
_March, 1920._
_Mr. Jensen:_
_Dear Sir:_
_It is a pleasure to recommend most highly your system of massage and
exercises combined. I have observed the excellent results—from your
method of massage alone—in so many of the patients at the Polyclinic
Hospital—both in my own patients and in those of the other physicians
that I do not hesitate to endorse your statements. The fact that no
apparatus is necessary for the combined massage exercises, which are
thus automatically graduated according to each person’s strength and
condition, is a most desirable feature._
_They are especially adapted to be used by men, women and children as a
permanent physical culture course._
_Very truly yours,_
_(Signed) William Sharpe._
* * * * *
EDWARD LELAND KELLOGG, M.D.
WILLIAM ALVIN KELLOGG, M.D.
48 West 51st Street
New York
_April, 1920._
_Mr. A. Jensen, New York City._
_Dear Sir:_
_I am glad to have had the privilege of looking over the manuscript of
your system of combined massage and exercise._
_The results so far as I have observed them have been excellent. This
combined treatment possesses manifest advantages over either massage or
exercises given separately._
_The fact that no apparatus is needed and that the strength of the
individual adapts the course or treatment to his particular need, renders
it generally applicable._
_Very truly,_
_(Signed) E. L. Kellogg._
CONTENTS
PAGE
ATHLETIC INSTRUCTORS 13
RESULTANT BAD EFFECTS FROM THE USE OF HEAVY APPARATUS, WEIGHTS
AND TOO STRENUOUS EXERCISES 15
SPECIAL BENEFIT TO WOMEN FROM THE USE OF THESE EXERCISES 17
THE CONSTRUCTION AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE COMBINED MASSAGE
EXERCISES 19
COMMENTARIES AS TO THEIR USE 24
THE PRESSURE OF THE HANDS 24
THE DEGREE OF EXERTION 26
THE BEST TIME FOR THE EXERCISES 27
SPECIAL REMARKS 28
GENERAL AND DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISES
WITH THEIR ANALYSES AND EFFECTS 30
Exercise No. 1 30
Exercise No. 2 33
Exercise No. 3 36
Exercise No. 3 A 39
Exercise No. 4 41
Exercise No. 5 43
Exercise No. 6 48
Exercise No. 7 50
Exercise No. 8 54
Exercise No. 9 56
Exercise No. 9 A 57
Exercise No. 10 59
Exercise No. 11 62
Exercise No. 12 64
Exercise No. 13 66
Exercise No. 14 69
Exercise No. 14 A 70
PROPER BREATHING 72
SPECIAL AND GENERAL DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES 74
SYNOPTIC REVIEW OF THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISES 78
HOW THE NUMBER OF EXERCISES FOR ONE PERFORMANCE CAN BEST BE
DECREASED 85
ANOTHER SYSTEM:
Practicing the Movements of the Body Without the Massage 86
SUPPLEMENT
HOW THE EXERCISES MAY BE UTILIZED IN SOME DISEASED AND DISORDERED
CONDITIONS OF THE BODY 87
Anaemia 88
Headache 88
Disorders of the Digestive System 88
Disorders of the Liver 90
Diabetes 90
Affections of the Lungs 90
Disordered Conditions of the Heart 91
Insomnia 91
Muscular Disorders 91
Nervous Diseases 92
Obesity 92
Curvature of the Spine 92
ATHLETIC INSTRUCTORS
The tendency of most instructors or athletes, when presenting exercises,
is to lay stress upon the production of large muscles, capable of certain
performances. Some even go so far as to relate specific feats, which they
are able to accomplish by reason of their great muscular power, which, it
may be observed, is not necessarily indicative of good health. Oftentimes
they have obtained this muscular strength by other exercises than the
ones described in their books, or they have been accustomed to hard work
from early youth, or are naturally strong. But the impression is conveyed
that any individual can acquire the same muscular strength by practicing
their exercises.
It is interesting to note that Sandow in his “Magazine for Physical
Culture,” criticizes the abdominal muscles of a Danish instructor in
athletics by the name of Muller, as almost abnormally developed, and
Muller in turn retorts that Sandow’s arms and legs are too thick for
their length, and his figure is too clumsy. That Mr. Muller has a better
figure than Mr. Sandow is true, as is likewise the fact that the latter
has given too much attention to heavy-weight lifting. Sandow is not as
tall as Muller, however, and quite naturally if a man of small stature
has the same muscular development as a taller man, it is conclusive that
the figure of the smaller must appear more clumsy.
It does not follow that two persons practicing the same exercises will
develop similar figures, although some men and women, who teach or
publish courses in physical culture, often give their pupils or readers
this impression.
However, any good exercises will improve the figure. What is significant
is the fact that Sandow and Muller are arguing so much about a matter of
no vital importance. Both might be sound and healthy, even if what they
say about each other is true.
In a book of exercises published by Mr. Muller, mention is made of some
rubbing or skin exercises, as they are called. These are practically
only skin deep, as far as the rubbing is concerned. Mr. Muller correctly
admits this in an explanation that the rubbing provides for a kneading
of the entire surface of the skin. The English translator of the book
likewise explains, in his Introduction, that the rubbing exercises are an
endeavor to restore to its due position, the proper care of the skin.
There is a great difference between scientific massage movements and
rubbing, although this may not be evident to the layman. While scientific
massage movements also benefit the skin, their influence upon the deeper
lying vessels, organs, nerves and muscles is of far greater importance.
RESULTANT BAD EFFECTS FROM THE USE OF HEAVY APPARATUS, WEIGHTS AND TOO
STRENUOUS EXERCISES
Something similar to what happened to the frog that wanted to be as large
as the ox occurs in many a young man, who begins to exercise with heavy
apparatus and weights in order to develop his muscles. Usually in the
first or second month there will be a marked increase of development of
the muscles and believing that this relative development will continue,
he becomes over-enthusiastic and works so vigorously that he suffers
from his mistake. Then, if the exercises are suddenly stopped and not
gradually decreased, and if the poisonous substances and fatigue matter
accumulated in the muscles are not removed by massage, the result will
be muscles that are too hard and too stiff, with the accompanying ill
effects. Such exercises also place too great a strain upon the nerves,
heart and other organs of the body. The energy it demands ought to be put
to a better purpose; as Jules Claretie of the Theatre Français in Paris
aptly said, when discussing some rough sport, “Think though about other
things.”
Most apparatus used for exercise acts too artificially.
Because a person possesses great muscular strength, it does not
necessarily follow that his organs and nerves have a proportionate
strength and vitality. Many noteworthy examples of this fallacy may be
cited. Thus, for instance, Ellegaard, known as one of the best cycle
riders in the world, some fifteen years ago, was rejected as a soldier.
John L. Sullivan, the boxer, died of a weak heart. Les Darcy, the boxer
from Australia, who was to have fought Jess Willard, succumbed to
pneumonia within a few days after his illness, and many other athletic
exponents have impaired their health or gone to too early a grave, the
victims of professional ambition.
One should be by no means adverse to well developed and strong muscles,
so long as the elasticity and rhythm of the movements of the body are
unimpaired, but if the nerves and organs have been overtaxed in the
development of the muscles, the result is a weaker instead of a stronger
individual.
Experiments have shown that while the man with big and hard biceps
muscles may be able to lift a heavier weight than the man with more
supple and elastic muscles, the latter would lift a smaller weight a
greater number of times. Both would improve their performance after five
minutes of massage had been applied to the arms.
When practicing the combined massage exercises set forth in this book,
the muscles become massaged during each exercise.
The strongest athlete may exert the same strength that he employs in
heavy-weight lifting, or apparatus work, when applying these massage
movements to the body, without any of the possible ill effects resulting
from heavy gymnastic work. The use of such strength in the combined
massage exercises will thus result in benefit for the body in the form
of massage, and this will greatly assist in re-establishing the vitality
that might have been lost by excessive strenuous exercises.
It should not be construed that these arguments are intended as advice
to refrain from outdoor exercises and sports. Anyone and everyone should
practice and participate in any sports suitable to their temperament,
time and purse, but care should be taken not to overtax the strength or
vitality.
SPECIAL BENEFIT TO WOMEN FROM THE USE OF THESE EXERCISES
The combined massage exercises are extremely beneficial to women and
girls of all ages.
Women suffer more from constipation than men. This may be due to the use
of corsets, which at times prevent the respiratory muscles from being put
into full play, or hinder the blood from circulating freely and often
cause flabbiness or even atrophy to the abdominal and pectoral muscles.
It is therefore often the original and chief cause of disorders in the
digestive and abdominal organs.
It is especially important that women, looking forward to motherhood,
should possess strong and healthy abdominal organs and muscles. These
will cause a quick and natural delivery of the child; and children born
under such conditions are not likely to suffer deforming injuries, as for
instance, the tearing of a nerve leading to an arm (brachial paralysis),
etc., which often occurs when artificial means have to be used at their
birth.
Pregnancy is, however, not feared so much either for the inconvenience of
carrying the infant or its delivery, but chiefly because of the current
idea that a woman may lose her girlish appearance or not feel as young as
before; this has often happened to many. If from early youth a woman has
exercised and trained her abdominal muscles, the state of pregnancy will
be less disagreeable. She would also look forward to this state with more
hope and delight, if she could be made to realize that by care, massage
and exercises of the abdominal muscles, after having recovered from her
accouchement, she could regain her former figure and appearance.
The combined massage exercises, Nos. 10, 3, 7 and 5 are most beneficial
for the abdominal organs and muscles. The massage movements in Nos. 10
and 3 are especially beneficial, for pelvic exudations; they cause a
quicker and more complete removal of same.
If girls of thirteen years of age or younger would begin to practice the
combined massage exercises and the breathing exercises for fifteen or
twenty minutes each day, irregularities in periodical exudations could be
prevented in most cases; the chest would be firmer and it would do much
to allow the change into womanhood to proceed without any injury to the
nerves or general health.
THE CONSTRUCTION AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISES
The chief characteristics of the exercises presented in this book is that
scientific or medical massage movements (not mere rubbing) have been
combined with the essentials of preliminary gymnastic exercises, such
as for instance, bending, stretching and circulating movements of the
arms, the bending of the body (trunk) backward, forward and to the side,
turning and rolling it to the right or left, and bending and stretching
the legs.
By this combined application of the massage movements with the movements
of the body, there is also obtained the benefit of the essential
characteristics of the Indian Yogis system or concentration exercises,
so-called after the old Hindus,—the Yogi. For example, one of their
exercises consisted of placing the backs of the hands on the back, and by
concentrating the mind on the muscles of the arms a stationary pressure
was exerted on that part of the body. Another consisted of clutching the
hands firmly (with arms at sides) and rising up on toes, at the same time
concentrating the mind on the muscles of the arms and legs. The Yogis
also practiced other exercises, in which the hands exerted a stationary
pressure on other parts of the body and against a wall.
The few more or less fantastic systems of exercise presented during
the last fifty years, which consist mainly in producing an imaginary
resistance to the muscles by will power only, originate from the Indian
Yogis.
In the exercises presented in this book a natural, better and more
agreeable resistance to the muscles of the legs, arms and trunk is
secured by stroking and pressing with the hands on the body and limbs.
=Here the pressing is not stationary=, as in the Indian and similar
exercises, but it is done while the hands are stroking. =This stroking
and pressing= is done in such a manner that it is identical with
scientific massage movements, some of which have been used by specialists
prominent in Europe and America. To the exercises are also added those
which in the author’s experience at hospitals in New York, have been
found to be productive of the best results. The only difference is that
they are here joined to the movements of the body and are performed by
the individual.
These massage movements have a far greater beneficial
effect—therapeutically as well as physiologically—than the body movements
themselves, to which they are combined. A brief explanation of their
effects may here be interpolated.
1. They bring about increasing activity in the glands and
vessels of the skin and muscles. Waste and poisonous substances
are carried away by the lymph and blood supply and disposed of
through the skin, lungs and kidneys more readily than otherwise.
2. Flabby and atrophied muscles are nourished and restored,
while hard and contracted muscles are made more soft and
supple; and fatigue matter removed from them.
3. They stimulate and nourish the nerves and through them the
tissues and organs of the body.
4. They cause increased combustion in the tissues, more
carbonic acid gas is eliminated and more oxygen absorbed,
thereby stimulating and increasing respiration through the
lungs and skin pores.
5. The massage movements will likewise stimulate and cause
increased activity in the digestive organs. The flow of
the digestive juices from the liver and pancreas, which
are essential for proper digestion and absorption of food,
is increased. They assist in preventing engorgement of the
liver and are very beneficial to that organ. The stomach and
intestines are influenced directly by the mechanical action of
the massage movements and indirectly through nourishment of the
nerve centres controlling them.
6. The direct action of the kidneys and bladder is also
stimulated, so that waste and poisonous substances are
eliminated more quickly.
7. The heart is influenced not only by massaging around and
over its region, thus stimulating the muscles and nerves
surrounding it, but also through the influence of the massage
movements on the circulation of the blood. The strength of the
heart-beat is thus increased and the number decreased.
8. Weak eyes have been benefited by the effect of massage on
the nervous system.
Summarizing, it may be seen that: (1) In the massage exercises the
essentials of preliminary gymnasium exercises are included with their
resultant benefit. (2) The therapeutic and physiologic beneficial effect
of scientific massage movements are obtained. (3) The benefit of the
essential characteristics of the concentration system originated by the
Hindus is secured and in a much more effective facile and agreeable
manner. (4) In addition, there accrue the other general advantages which
the massage exercises possess. A few of these may be noted:
a. The maximum of effect with the minimum of effort.
b. The stretching, pressing, stimulating and nourishing of the
nerves in a natural way.
c. The avoidance of mental fatigue. The longer the exercises
are practiced the more they are liked, because of their
agreeable nature and immediate effect.
d. Inasmuch as they are regulated by the pressure of the hands,
they may be adapted to any required degree and thus are equally
beneficial to all, from the most developed athlete down to the
little child old enough to understand their execution.
e. The exercises may also be used in different disordered and
diseased conditions of the body, of a mild character, in which
massage is helpful. A person with injured legs and even one
with no legs at all will be able to practice some of them in a
sitting or lying posture; namely, massage exercises Nos. 1, 2,
10 and 12, and without the movements of the body also Nos. 8,
11 and 14.
f. Because they improve the circulation of blood and lymph,
enrich the blood, burn away fatty tissues, build up muscles,
and have the most beneficial influence on the nerves and
glands; they will improve the appearance and the figure of both
stout and thin.
g. They will preserve youth and retard old age.
COMMENTARIES AS TO THEIR USE
The massage exercises are chiefly intended to serve as a daily course for
men, women and children, in order to preserve and improve their health,
vitality, energy and figure.
The best method to adopt is to practice all the combined massage
exercises in their order together with a special or general deep
breathing exercise at the intervals as explained in Chapter “Synoptic
Review,” page 78. In this way the massage movements and the movements
of the body are applied in the best proportion. Whether the massage
exercises are done five, ten or fifteen times each, or more, the time
allotted for the deep breathing at the intervals indicated should not
exceed fifteen seconds.
Practicing all the exercises from five to fifteen times each in the
manner noted will require from twelve to twenty-five minutes (i.e., one
performance), which will be most suitable to all who are using them as a
daily course. Old and stout persons will probably require a little more
time for one performance than is necessary for those who are younger,
thinner or more athletic. There is, however, nothing to prevent anyone
from increasing the time to half an hour or even longer if desired; or,
the performance may be made to last as long as the performer might have
been accustomed to exercise in a gymnasium. The average time required for
doing each massage exercise five times will be found in the descriptions.
THE PRESSURE OF THE HANDS
The massage exercises not only may be regulated and made more or less
vigorous by increasing or decreasing their number and speed, but also by
increasing or decreasing the pressure of the hands while stroking the
body. They can thus be practiced fifteen times each with a light pressure
and not tire as much as if they are practiced five times each with a
stronger pressure.
=A light pressure= is accomplished when practically only the
weight of the hands is put into play.
=The strongest pressure= is exerted when the fingers and hands
are used as forcefully as possible.
=A moderate pressure= is one which is midway between no real
pressure and the most forceful.
=A strong pressure= is then somewhat more forcible than the
moderate.
A powerful pressure with the hands will of course give a more effective
massage and make the movements of the body and limbs more vigorous,
thus influencing the entire body to a greater degree than will a light
pressure. However, this does not mean that it is necessary or most
practical to utilize the strongest pressure possible, although even that
may be done without causing harm, since the massaging of the muscles will
automatically prevent any stiffness or ill effects.
It must be remembered that by the strongest pressure is meant the
strongest that one is able to exert upon oneself. Let us take, for
example, two persons of widely different physical strength, such as a
powerful wrestler and a little girl of about ten years of age. If the
wrestler uses the strongest pressure possible for him to exert, that
pressure would not be harmful to him (provided, of course, that he has
had no recent injuries), since his body is proportionately strong. The
little girl, however, cannot endure the pressure that the wrestler is
able to exert on his body, but she will not be able to press so forcibly.
She will, however, be able to endure the strongest pressure that she can
exert, because its strength will be in proportion to the strength of her
body.
If it is a question as to whether each exercise should be practiced a
lesser number of times with the strongest pressure or a greater number of
times with a moderate or strong pressure, the latter method is not only
advisable but preferable.
Therefore, in most instances a moderate or strong pressure should be used
when the same pressure is exerted throughout one performance.
=Using different degrees of pressure= for one exercise is not only quite
practical, but also as effective as using the same pressure for one
performance. For instance, if an exercise is practiced five times, the
first time a light pressure may be exerted, the second time a moderate,
the third time a strong, the fourth also a strong and the fifth a
moderate pressure.
If an exercise is done ten times the different degrees of pressure
can, of course, be accomplished with more variation. In other words, a
changing pressure may be utilized by gradually increasing it each time,
until the exercise has been executed five or six times, then gradually
decreasing for each of the remaining four or five times. If the exercise
is practiced fifteen times, increase the pressure until the seventh or
eighth time, decreasing it for each of the remaining times, and so forth.
THE DEGREE OF EXERTION
Whether the massage exercises are practiced a lesser number of times with
a strong pressure or a greater number of times with a light pressure
and whether they are executed quickly or slowly; each exercise may be
practiced until the desired fatigue is induced.
A boxer, wrestler or any other athlete in training may wish to practice
the exercises in such a manner and to such an extent that complete
fatigue results. The same may be true in the case of stout people who
wish to reduce, when the heart and other vital organs are not essentially
weakened.
Men, women and children who use the exercises daily for improving and
preserving their health will undoubtedly follow a moderate course and
do each exercise only until slightly fatigued. However, more strenuous
performances may be executed, but care should be taken to avoid all
extremes.
If any exercise provokes fatigue, the fifteen seconds deep breathing
between that and the next will probably serve to eradicate this. If
not, the pause between the massage exercise and the breathing may be
prolonged. However, the fatigue feeling resulting from a vigorous or
prolonged massage exercise will not last as long as that which results
from other exercises with similar exertion. This is due to the influence
of the massage movements.
THE BEST TIME FOR THE EXERCISES
While it is well to do exercises in the morning, the majority do not feel
inclined to exert themselves vigorously immediately upon arising. Neither
is it scientifically correct, since the body has been inactive and in a
prone position for several hours. The following procedure is advisable:
Upon arising, practice the general and special breathing exercises
without strain, about two times each. This will benefit the heart action
and the circulation. Subsequently, or after the bath, practice all the
massage exercises from five to ten times each. If there is no time for
all, practice exercises No. 7 or 5, or both.
Get the habit of proper breathing from early morning.
If a bath is taken every morning, a warm shower gradually getting cooler
is preferable.
The afternoon or evening, about half an hour before dinner, is also a
desirable time for exercising, since the flow of the gastric juices will
be stimulated and cause the entire digestive system to be in its best
condition for the reception of food. It is best not to do any violent
exercising within at least three-quarters of an hour after a substantial
meal has been taken.
If the massage exercises are practiced for about ten minutes without too
much exertion, just before going to bed, it will prove beneficial to
sleep.
Before and after a bath in the ocean is also an opportune time for doing
the exercises.
It is not intended to convey the impression that all the combined massage
exercises must necessarily be performed three times every day, although
this might be very good under proper circumstances. They should be done,
however, at least once a day, although adherence to this rule may not
be feasible at all times. For instance, on a very hot day, with a high
degree of humidity, when continual perspiration is induced, it may seem
desirable to omit them. However, if only one or two massage exercises are
done in the morning it is advisable that all of them, with the breathing
exercise, at the intervals, be practiced at least five times each later
in the day. Ten times each would be better.
In addition, the special and general deep breathing exercises should be
practiced separately for about five minutes once or twice daily.
SPECIAL REMARKS
Each exercise should be done in one uniform rhythmical movement.
The room should be aired, the window open, if this is possible without
incurring draught or without too great a drop in the temperature.
One is not likely to take cold when exercising but it is well to dress
quickly upon completion of the movements. Of course in the winter the
room may be warmed.
If the skin is moist, a bath should be taken or the body wiped with a
wet, cool towel and thoroughly dried before the exercises are commenced.
If the body and the palms of the hands become moist while exercising,
some talcum powder should be sprinkled on the skin.
THE ILLUSTRATIONS
To those, who have read the preceding chapters, it will hardly be
necessary to point out, that the exercises demonstrated by a woman are
not intended for women only but also for men and children; and likewise
the exercises demonstrated by a man—the author—are equally beneficial for
women and children.
GENERAL AND DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISES WITH
THEIR ANALYSIS AND EFFECTS
(_See also Synoptic Review_)
Exercise No. 1
Massaging with both hands simultaneously from the forehead or each temple
up over the top and side of the head and continuing down the back of the
head, neck and cervical vertebrae, and thence around both sides of the
neck and down each side of the throat; at the same time bending the head
forward and backward.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing or sitting erect in a chair or bed.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 1.
Fig. 1 A. Fig. 1 B.
Fig. 1 C. Fig. 1 D.
Fig. 1 E.]
With the four fingers together and the thumbs close, place the inner
side of the fingers in the middle of the forehead, so that the hands are
nearly parallel to each other (Fig. 1 A). Stroke from there with the
fingers and palms of both hands simultaneously up over the head; at the
same time bending the head forward (Fig. 1 B). Continue down the back
of the head and neck as far as possible, pressing with the fingers on
each side of the cervical vertebrae (Fig. 1 C). From here continue the
stroking with the palms of the hands and the fingers around each side
of the neck toward the throat; at the same time bending the head slowly
backward (Fig. 1 D). When the fingers reach the throat they stroke
downward on each side of it (Fig. 1 E).
_Doing this exercise five times will take about half a minute._
NOTE I. While the fingers are stroking the neck on each side of the
cervical vertebrae, the elbows should be elevated as high as possible.
NOTE II. Inhale while the hands are moving over the head and down the
back of the neck. Exhale while the hands and fingers are moving around
the neck and over the throat.
NOTE III. Women with long and abundant hair, which in hanging loose might
interfere with the movements of the hands and fingers, can braid it at
the back of the head (pigtail fashion) and the fingers can stroke around
each side of it. Or the loosened hair may be parted in the middle, thus
leaving the back of the neck comparatively free.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 1_
_The influence of the massage movements on the muscles, nerves,
tissues and circulation as well as on the internal organs
has already been described to some extent in the Chapter,
“Construction and Characteristics of the Combined Massage
Exercises.” Therefore, the analysis and effects of this and the
other exercises will only attempt to explain how each exercise
is combined, and what nerves, muscles and organs are influenced
by it._
This exercise is combined in such a way, that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the bending of the head forward and backward,
together with the massage of the temples, the forehead, the scalp, the
cervical vertebrae, the neck and the throat.
The movements of the head, arms and hands in applying the massage
movements, exercise the muscles and nerves of the hands, arms, shoulders,
the upper back, the sides and the chest. They also stretch the muscles
and nerves of the latter two.
The massage influences the muscles, vessels, nerves and tissues of the
temples, scalp, neck, throat and likewise the glands in the neck.
This exercise acts as a preventive to, and is beneficial for headache,
facial neuralgia, falling hair and a disordered circulation to the head.
It will reduce fat shoulders and necks and will build up thin ones.
It is also beneficial for singers and public speakers.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 2
Massaging each arm and side alternately from the wrist along the upper
aspect of the arm up over shoulder to the base of the neck, then from
the wrist again along the under side of the arm over armpit and part of
shoulder blade down the same side of body and across the lower chest to
the opposite side; at the same time exercising the arms and shoulders.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing or sitting erect in a bed or chair.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 2.
Fig. 2 A. Fig. 2 B.
Fig. 2 C. Fig. 2 D.
Fig. 2 E. Fig. 2 F.]
Stretch the left arm to the front, holding it at such an angle that the
tip of the fingers are at the same height or slightly higher than the
top of the head, the fingers held straight and together, with the thumbs
close. Place the right hand, with the fingers and thumb close, over the
upper side of the left arm at or on the wrist in such a way that the hand
and fingers are bent transversely over the arm, and so that the palm of
the hand and fingers are pressing equally on top and both sides of same
(Fig. 2 A).
Stroke thus from there along the upper side of the outstretched arm,
continuing over shoulder to the base of the neck (Fig. 2 B). Then let the
hand slip loosely backward the same way over the arm to the wrist. Now
clutch the out-stretched arm underneath at the wrist in such a way that
the thumb is on the inner side and the four fingers on the outer side of
the arm (Fig. 2 C). Stroke thus the out-stretched arm underneath from the
wrist up to the armpit, at the same time raising it slowly to a nearly
perpendicular position. Then continue downward underneath the shoulder
with the four fingers around as far as possible on the shoulder blade,
and the thumb in the armpit (Fig. 2 D). Continue downward the same side
of body, the fingers being kept as far over toward the back as possible
and the hand held transversely to the side of the body and bent in such a
way that it presses equally with the palm and the fingers. When the hand
has thus passed just below a line horizontal to the nipple of the left
breast (Fig. 2 E) let it move across the chest underneath the nipples to
the other side, in that way, thus not altering the position of the hand
itself (Fig. 2 F).
During this massage of the left side and across the lower chest, the left
arm should still be held in its out-stretched position over the head.
Upon completing the movement on the right side and changing to the left,
release the right hand from the chest and put out the right arm, holding
it in the same position as was the left, in the beginning. At the same
time let the left arm be brought down with its hand on the upper side of
the right wrist and begin to stroke the right arm and side in the same
manner as the left. In thus changing from one arm and side to the other,
practically no stop should be made.
_Doing this exercise five times will take about half a minute.
If counting every time when commencing to stroke each arm, it
will be ten counts._
NOTE I. When the upper side of one of the arms has been massaged to the
base of the neck, it is not absolutely necessary to let the hand go back
over the arm, as described, in order to massage it underneath. The hand
can simply be taken away from the neck and the outstretched arm grasped
underneath the wrist without touching its upper side. However, it is best
performed in the way first described, but let the hands return, barely
touching the arm.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 2_
This exercise is combined in such a way that there is obtained the
movements of the arms together with their massage and that of the
shoulders, the sides of the upper body, the outer sides of the upper
back, and the lower chest.
The arms and shoulders are here exercised to a greater extent than in
exercise No. 1. Thus, for instance, if the left arm is being stroked
upward with the right hand, the muscles of the right hand are not only
exercised, but likewise those of the left arm and shoulder, the latter
are especially put into play because the left arm is resisting the
pressure of the right hand upon it. The left arm furthermore is massaged
at the same time. The reverse is of course the case when the right arm is
massaged.
The movements of the arms and hands, in applying the massage movements,
exercise the muscles and nerves of the hands, the arms, the shoulders,
the upper back, the sides, and the lower chest.
The massage influences the muscles, nerves, blood and lymph vessels
of the arms, the shoulders, the sides and the lower chest. It also
stimulates the action of the liver and strengthens that of the heart.
This exercise is especially beneficial for stiffness in arms and
shoulders caused by playing baseball, golf, hockey or from other
over-exertion. It will reduce fat shoulders and arms and build up thin
ones.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 3
Massaging each leg alternately with both hands simultaneously from ankle
upward over leg and hip, continuing from there with one hand above the
other and parallel to each other, directly across the abdomen, one hand
moving underneath the ribs, over the transverse colon and the stomach
and the other hand over the lower abdomen and pelvis; at the same time
lifting and stretching the legs and bending the trunk forward and
backward.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect with feet parallel and about four
inches apart.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 3.
Fig. 3 A. Fig. 3 B.
Fig. 3 C. Fig. 3 D.
Fig. 3 E. Fig. 3 F.]
Bend the trunk forward, at the same time raising the right leg about four
inches from the floor, so that it is slightly bent at the knee and hip
and pointed somewhat forward. The weight will then rest on the left leg,
the knee of which should be held as rigidly as possible. With the trunk
bent forward, clutch the right leg with both hands just above the ankle
in such a way, that the thumbs are in front on either side of the tibia
(shin-bone). The fingers of each hand, which are kept close together are
slanted downward and around the back of the leg from each side, so that
the third and fourth fingers of each hand meet and touch at the middle
line of the calf muscles. The palms of the hands are thus on each side of
the leg, the right hand being on the right or outer side and the left on
the inner or left side (Fig. 3 A).
Stroke thus with both hands simultaneously from the ankle upward over
the lower right leg pressing the muscles with the thumbs and especially
with the inner side of the tips of the fingers on the middle of the calf
muscles.
While continuing over the knee and in order to conform the hands to the
shape of the thigh, turn the thumbs more transversely over the upper side
of the thigh and do the same with the fingers underneath, so that as far
as possible the muscles of the thigh are influenced all around (Fig. 3 B).
The hands thus reach the groin (Fig. 3 C).
Here the right hand, the fingers pointed downward and thumb close,
continues upward over the side of the hip, until the back part of the
right palm is just above the crest of the ilium, or hip bone. Here it is
turned around so that the fingers are pointing straight toward the left,
or toward the middle line of the body. Simultaneously the left hand, at
the inner side of the groin, is also turned, but in such a way that the
fingers are pointed toward the right and with the back part of the palm
it presses and strokes a short distance over the appendix and the lower
right side of the abdomen. This is done at the same time as the right
hand is stroking upward over the hip and turned around as described (Fig.
3 D). When both hands are thus turned, the left will be underneath the
right, the fingers of each hand pointed in an opposite direction and the
hands parallel to each other. The right foot is placed on the floor, at
the time that the hands reach the groin or hip, and at the same time,
the upper body is returned to an upright position, the shoulders thrown
slightly backward without strain. The abdominal muscles should be neither
distended nor contracted, but kept in a natural position (Fig. 3 E).
Without bending the body to sides, continue thus with both hands
simultaneously across the abdomen, the right hand with fingers first,
moves underneath the ribs, and pressure is exerted with the fingers and
palm over the abdominal viscera (the point of the liver, the transverse
colon, the region of the solar plexus, the duodenum, the pylorus, and the
stomach) and finishes over on the left side, with the fingers moving
between the crest of the ilium, or hip bone, and the lowest border of the
ribs. The left hand with the back of the palm preceding, at the same time
strokes across the lower abdomen just underneath the umbilicus or navel,
and over to the left side, where it is released simultaneously with the
right hand (Fig. 3 F).
Now stroke over the left leg, hip and abdomen in a similar way, but of
course with this difference; that here the left hand strokes upward over
the outer side of the leg, over the left hip and across the stomach from
the left, above the right hand. The latter moves from the inner side of
the leg, across the lower abdomen below the left hand. In other words,
the left hand massages over the left leg and side and from the latter
across the abdomen in the same way as the right hand does on the right
side, and likewise the right hand massages over the left leg and side and
from the latter across the abdomen, in the same way as does the left hand
on the right side.
_This exercise done five times will take about half a minute.
If counting each time when commencing to stroke each leg it
will be ten counts._
NOTE I. The raising of the trunk should be the force, which here pulls
the arms and hands over the leg.
NOTE II. In bending to massage upward on each leg, the latter can also
be bent and raised as high as possible. In that case the leg is pushed
downward through the hands, while these are pressing on it, the muscles
of the thigh or hip thus being exercised and influenced more than if
the leg is raised or bent only a short distance. On the contrary, if
the leg is placed only slightly forward with but little flexion of the
knee, as explained in the detailed description, the upper body has to be
bent further downward in order that the hands reach the lower leg at the
ankle. In this way, the muscles of the abdomen and back are exercised and
influenced to a greater extent.
If the exercise is done only five times it should be executed as
explained in the _Detailed Description_; if done ten times or more, both
ways may be used about an equal number of times each.
Exercise No. 3 A
_Position._—Lying supine on the floor or bed.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 3A.
Fig. 3A—A.
Fig. 3A—B.
Fig. 3A—C.
Fig. 3A—D.
Fig. 3A—E.]
Here the movements are the same as in No. 3, except that they are done
from the position of lying flat on the back on a bed or mattress. Those
of the leg and trunk may be altered in a similar way to those of No. 3.
Thus the upper body can remain resting with the back on the bed, while
each leg is bent up and firmly held with the hands at the ankle. The leg
then pushes itself through them (Fig. 3 A—A and B).
Or, the upper body can be raised and each leg kept nearly straight or
bent more or less, is then stroked while the trunk is being bent backward
and downward again on the bed (similar to a rowing exercise) (Fig. 3 A—C
and D).
The leg and trunk should be back and resting flat on the bed while the
hands are stroking over the hips and abdomen, so that the latter is
neither distended nor contracted, but kept in a natural and relaxed
position (Fig. 3 A—E).
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 3 (3 A)_
This exercise is combined so that there is obtained practically the
same movements as in rowing, together with massage of the legs and the
abdomen. This is the case whether the movements are done from a standing
position or while lying or sitting.
The movements of the legs, the trunk and the arms and hands, in applying
the massage movements, exercise the muscles and nerves of the hands, the
arms, the shoulders, the back and the sides of the body, the chest, the
abdomen and the legs. They also exercise the liver and other digestive
organs and have a beneficial influence on the heart. They stretch the
nerves in the spine in a natural way.
The massage influences the muscles, nerves and vessels of the legs
and the abdomen, also the lower point of the liver, the pancreas, the
stomach, the intestines, the different abdominal nerve-plexuses, the
appendix and the organs of the pelvis. The heart is influenced indirectly
through the circulation of the blood.
This exercise is beneficial for pain and weakness in the legs, caused by
diseased conditions of the nerves, as in sciatica, partial paralysis,
etc. (See Supplement, page 92.) It is especially beneficial for disorders
in the digestive system, as in chronic or habitual constipation, gas in
the stomach, etc. (See Supplement, page 88). It is beneficial to the
generative organs in women. It is especial beneficial for professional
dancers and runners and people whose profession causes great strain on
the legs.
It should be remembered that in this and all the other exercises where
the abdominal organs are massaged, it is important not to let the hands
go over the ribs and the upper abdominal cavity at the same time. The
digestive organs cannot be properly reached and influenced in this way.
Especially is this the case if the hand strokes in a perpendicular
position, that is, with fingers pointing downward and not transversely.
Even if the hands were stroking over the abdomen, underneath the ribs in
a perpendicular position, this would not be sufficient for the reason
that as much pressure can not be exerted in this way as with the hands in
a transverse position. It would also cover too many organs at one time to
make a sufficient impression upon them.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 4
Massaging each side alternately from the side of the knee upward over
the thigh, hip and side, then across the lower chest or underneath the
breasts, to the opposite side; and at the same time bending the upper
body from side to side.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect with shoulders thrown backward and
chest forward, but without strain, heels together and feet and
legs stationary.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 4.
Fig. 4 A. Fig. 4 B.
Fig. 4 C. Fig. 4 D.
Fig. 4 E.]
Without altering the position of the legs, bend the upper body to the
right as far as possible, so that the right hand is level with or just
above the outer side of the right knee. Place this hand, with fingers and
thumb close, transversely over the side of the thigh just above the knee
so that the fingers are pointing inward, toward the left (Fig. 4 A).
Stroke thus with the right hand from there upward over the side of the
right thigh, hip and trunk until the thumb is horizontal with the nipple
of the right breast, the fingers of the hand should thus be pointing
straight toward the left side. In thus stroking upward on the right side
the trunk should be bent directly to the left (Fig. 4 B and C).
Then without altering the position of the body or the hand, continue
stroking with the latter, fingers first, across the lower chest over the
region of the liver under the right nipple of the breast, toward the
left side (Fig. 4 D), where the hand moves underneath the nipple of the
breast, over the lower region of the heart and is released on that side
(Fig. 4 E).
Now alternate to the left side. The upper body is still bent to the left,
and the left hand is placed on the side of the left thigh, just above the
knee (Fig. 4 E). Now massage the left thigh, hip and side and from there
across the chest with the left hand, in the same way as the right side
was massaged with the right hand. When the hand is moving upward over the
left thigh, hip and side, the body is of course bent to the right. After
the left side has been massaged, repeat the movements on the right and so
forth, alternately.
_This exercise done five times will take about fifteen seconds.
If counting every time when commencing to stroke from each side
of hip, it will be ten counts._
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 4_
This exercise is combined in such a manner that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the bending of the body sideways, together with
massage of the outer side of the thighs, the hips, the sides of the body
and the lower chest.
The movements of the body and arms and hands in applying the massage
movements, exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders,
the back, the sides, the lower chest and breasts and the abdomen. They
also slightly influence the liver, the stomach, the intestines and
kidneys.
The massage influences the muscles, nerves and vessels of the outer side
of the thighs, the hips, the lower sides of the trunk and the lower
chest, as well as the liver and the heart.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 5
Massaging the right leg with the right hand and the left leg with the
left hand simultaneously from behind the ankles upward over the backs
and sides of the lower legs, backs and sides of the thighs, continuing a
short distance upward over the hips and from there, still with both hands
at the same time, across the abdomen and lower chest to the opposite
sides, the right hand passing from the right side underneath the ribs
over to the left side, and the left hand passing from the left side
underneath the nipples or breasts over to the right side. From there,
continue stroking with both hands simultaneously inward and upward over
the opposite nipples or breasts and the upper chest where the hands
pass each other and stroke outward to their respective sides under the
armpits; the right hand thus stroking from the left side inward and
upward over the left nipple or breast and the left hand from the right
side inward and upward over the right nipple or breast. Release the hands
at the armpits and stroke down each side of the lower back and buttocks
with the backs of the hands. At the same time, bending the upper body
forward and backward.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect with heels about eight inches apart
and feet nearly parallel.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 5.
Fig. 5 A. Fig. 5 B.
Fig. 5 C. Fig. 5 D.
Fig. 5 E. Fig. 5 F.
Fig. 5 G. Fig. 5 H.
Fig. 5 I. Fig. 5 J.
Fig. 5 K. Fig. 5 L.]
Without bending the legs, bend the upper body forward as far as possible,
and clutch the lower right leg with the right hand and the lower left leg
with the left hand from behind and just above the ankles in such a way
that the palm of each hand is on the back of each leg, the four fingers
placed around the inner sides and thumbs around the outer sides, thus
making an equal pressure with fingers and palms of hands around each leg
(Fig. 5 A).
Now, stroke upward over the calf muscles and thighs, the palms of the
hands here stroking the outer sides of the latter, the four fingers
underneath and the thumb on top, at the same time raising the trunk to an
upright position (Fig. 5 B and C).
While the hands continue upward over the sides of hips, turn them around
so that the fingers point inward (Fig. 5 D). Continue thus with the right
hand on the right side until it is just above the crest of the ilium, or
hip bone. The left hand, at the same time moves a little higher upward
on the left side until its thumb is nearly horizontal with the nipple of
the left breast. The trunk is now in an upright position, the shoulders
thrown well back (Fig. 5 E).
With the fingers of both hands thus pointing toward the middle of the
body, continue stroking with both hands simultaneously from each side
across the front of the body, to the opposite sides, the left hand above
the right, passing each other at the middle line. Bend the trunk slightly
forward at the same time (Fig. 5 F). In other words, the right hand
strokes from the right side underneath the ribs directly over to the left
side, above the crest of the left ilium, or hip bone, and around as far
as possible on that side. The left hand strokes at the same time from
the left side across the lower chest, underneath the nipples over to and
around as far as possible on the right side. The left forearm is thus
crossed over the right (Fig. 5 G).
Then continue stroking with both hands simultaneously from each side
inward and upward over each breast and upper chest. The right hand thus
moving from the left side strokes inward and upward over the left breast
and across the upper chest to the right side and ceases underneath the
right armpit. The left hand moving from the right side, strokes inward
and upward over the right breast and across the upper chest to the left
side and ceases under the left armpit. At the same time, the trunk which
has been bent slightly forward, while the hands were stroking across the
lower chest and abdomen, is raised and bent slightly backward. In thus
stroking inward and upward over the chest, the hands and fingers are held
in the same way as when they were on the sides of the body. When moving
over the breasts the left forearm is of course crossed over the right
(Fig. 5 H), but when reaching the middle of the chest the hands cross,
the left hand being directly above the right (Fig. 5 I), and from there
they continue stroking transversely over the chest to their respective
sides under the armpit (Fig. 5 J).
The hands are now released and brought as far up on the back as possible.
The backs of the clenched hands are placed on each side of the back, in
such a way, that the knuckles at the base of the finger of each hand are
close to and opposite each other on each side of the spinal column (Fig.
5 K). Stroke thus from there with the backs of both hands simultaneously
downward on each side of the lower back and buttocks, the knuckles
following the spine on each side of same (Fig. 5 L).
_This exercise done five times will take about half a minute._
NOTE I. If unable to place the hands behind the ankles without bending
the knees, the latter may be bent slightly or the leg stroked at a
distance from the ankle possible to reach without bending the knees.
NOTE II. When the hands are stroking and pressing over the legs, let the
raising movement of the trunk pull the out-stretched arms up as far as
the motion permits.
_Combined with Deep Breathing_
If done very slowly, deep breathing may be practiced with this exercise
in the following way: Inhale the air through the nose, while stroking
upward over the legs and hips and raising the upper body.
Exhale this air through the mouth while stroking and pressing across the
body from sides, and while the upper body is being bent slightly forward.
Inhale again through the nose, while stroking inward and upward over the
chest, and while the upper body is being again bent upward and slightly
backward.
Retain this air in the lungs while the hands are moving down the spine,
back and buttocks.
Exhale this air through the mouth, while the body is being bent downward,
in order to repeat the exercise.
If special or general deep breathing exercises are practiced between
each massage exercise, natural breathing during this exercise will be
sufficient. In the event that the reader has little available time and
may wish to practice some deep breathing and exercises for a few minutes,
this combination will be found admirable.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 5_
This exercise is so combined that there is obtained the movements of the
arms and the bending of the trunk forward and backward together with
massage of the back and sides of the legs, the hips, the sides of the
upper body, the chest and breasts, the abdomen and lower back, and the
buttocks.
The movements of the trunk, arms and hands, in applying the massage
movements, exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders and
the entire upper body, including the abdomen. The organs of the latter
are influenced in the same way. The muscles of the legs are here not
exercised to the same extent as in exercise No. 3, but if the legs are
kept straight in bending the trunk forward the great sciatic and other
nerves of the leg are stretched in a natural way. The spinal cord is
also stretched.
The massage influences the legs, but not to such an extent as in exercise
No. 3, first, because each is here only massaged with one hand and
secondly, because the muscles are kept more rigid by the bending of
the body, for the reason that the weight of the body is upon them. It
influences the muscles, nerves and vessels of the abdomen, the hips, the
sides, the chest and breasts, the lower and upper back and especially the
spine and the buttocks. It also influences the heart, the liver both from
in front and behind, and the kidneys. It influences the digestive organs
directly from in front and indirectly through the nerves in the back.
To call attention to the difference between scientific massage movements
and rubbing, it may be pointed out that there are five principal massage
movements combined with the movements of the body in this exercise,
namely:
1. The stroking and pressing upward over the back of the legs.
2. The manner in which the right hand strokes and presses directly across
the abdomen from the right.
3. The stroking and pressing with the left hand from the left side over
the region of the heart to the opposite side.
4. The stroking and pressing with the hands from each opposite side of
the lower chest, over the region of the heart and liver inward and upward
across the chest.
5. The manner in which the backs of the clutched hands are stroking and
pressing downward on each side of the lower back and the spine.
If the hands would stroke over the front of the lower legs and continue
straight up over the abdomen and then downward on the backs of the legs
instead of upwards; neither the nerves, muscles and vessels of the legs
nor the internal organs would be influenced in the proper way. Such
rubbing would be of little value.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 6
Massaging with both hands simultaneously downward on each side of back
and buttocks; at the same time turning the trunk to the right and left.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect with chest thrown forward and
shoulders back, but without strain, heels about five inches
apart and with the feet either pointed slightly outward to each
side or parallel to each other, arms hanging loosely at side.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 6.
Fig. 6 A. Fig. 6 B.
Fig. 6 C. Fig. 6 D.]
Without altering the position of legs and feet, turn the trunk around to
the right so that if possible the chest and shoulders are facing squarely
to that side. The trunk will thus have made a quarter of a turn to the
right. While the body is in that position, clench the hands and move
them quickly around and as far up as possible on each side of the back,
the back of the hands turned toward the body, the knuckles of each hand
opposite each other on each side of the spinal column (Fig. 6 A).
Stroke thus with the backs of both hands simultaneously downward over
each side of the lower back and buttocks, where the hands are released
(Fig. 6 B).
Now, without altering the position of the legs or feet, turn the trunk
over to the left side, as far as possible, so that the chest and
shoulders are facing squarely to the left. Thus this time a half turn is
made. While in this position, stroke downward on the back in the same way
as when the body was turned toward the other side (Fig. 6 C and D).
Alternate by turning to the right, that is, half a turn from the last
posture, etc.
_This exercise done five times will take about ten seconds. If
counting every time the trunk is turned to the side, it will be
ten counts._
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 6_
This exercise is combined in such a way that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the turning of the upper body to each side,
together with massage of the lower back and buttocks.
The movements of the body and the arms and hands in applying the massage
movements exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders,
the upper chest, the upper and lower back, the hips and the sides of the
body. They also influence the kidneys.
The massage influences the muscles, nerves and vessels of the lower back
and buttocks, and also the kidneys, bladder and liver and, through the
back, the nerves leading to the abdominal organs.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 7
With the exception of the vibratory-pushing-movements of the tissues over
the region of the heart and liver and a new arm movement, this exercise
is a combination of some of the most important movements of other
exercises in this volume, which are here executed in a different order.
This is done, first, to get one of the most important and concentrated
exercises in the middle of the course, and secondly, so that it can be
used when there is time for only one or two exercises, thus serving the
benefit of as many of the most important movements as possible, in the
shortest time.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 7.
Fig. 7 A. Fig. 7 B. Fig. 7 C. Fig. 7 D.
Fig. 7 E. Fig. 7 F. Fig. 7 G. Fig. 7 H.
Fig. 7 I. Fig. 7 J.
Fig. 7 K. Fig. 7 L.]
Massage upward over the right leg and side of hip and from there across
the abdomen to the left side, as in exercise No. 3 (Fig. 7 A and B) or
(Fig. 3 A to F).
Release the hands there and massage the right arm and side and across the
lower chest with the left hand as in exercise No. 2. (_This movement has
not been illustrated as it is similar to the massaging of the left arm,
side and from there across the lower chest._)
Release the left hand and massage the left leg and across the abdomen as
in exercise No. 3. (_The massaging of the left leg and across the abdomen
has likewise not been illustrated as it is similar to the massaging of
the right leg and across the abdomen._)
Release the hands and massage the left arm, left side and over the lower
chest as in exercise No. 2 (Fig. 7 C and D) or (Fig. 2 A to F).
Now, bend the upper body, this time only slightly forward and cross the
left forearm over the right, thus placing the hands on the opposite lower
sides of the trunk and massage from there inward and upward over the
breast and upper chest as in exercise No. 5 (Fig. 7 E and F) or (Fig. 5 G
to J).
From there let the hands be brought around and stroke down each side of
the back and buttocks with the backs of the hands, as in exercise No. 5
(Fig. 7 G and H) or (Fig. 5 K and L).
Now, swing the out-stretched arms around to the front (Fig. 7 I), bend
the elbows (Fig. 7 J) and place the palms of the hands, with fingers
out-stretched and close together, on each opposite side of the lower
chest (Fig. 7 K) and while keeping the hands stationary on the skin,
quickly move or push this and the underlying tissues and muscles sideways
four times (Fig. 7 L).
_This exercise done five times will take about one minute._
_Notice_—The exercise should, like all the others, be executed so that
there is no pause between the various movements.
_Combined with Deep Breathing_
If the exercise is done slowly, deep breathing may be added in the
following way:
Inhale deeply and forcibly through the nose so that the lungs are filled
with air, while the hands are moving upward over the right leg and side
of hip and the body is being raised.
Exhale this air quickly and forcibly through the mouth, while continuing
massage over the abdomen to the left side, with the body bent slightly
forward.
Breathe through the nose in the same way, while the left hand strokes the
right arm and continues underneath the shoulder.
Exhale this air with force through the mouth, while the hand continues
down the right side and from there across the lower chest.
Inhale and exhale when massaging up over the left leg and hip and across
the abdomen in the same way as when the right leg and side were massaged.
Inhale and exhale again the same way, while the right arm is massaging
the left arm, side and across the lower chest as when the right arm was
massaged.
Breathe again with force through the nose, while massaging inward and
upward over the chest.
Retain this air in the lungs, while the backs of the hands are stroking
downward on each side of the back and buttocks and while the arms are
swinging around to the front.
Exhale this air through the mouth, while the hands are vibrating or
pushing the skin over the underlying tissues on each opposite side of the
lower chest, or on or underneath the breasts. Continue this movement with
the hands and do not release them until the lungs are completely emptied
of air.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 7_
This exercise is combined in such a way that there is obtained the
movements of the arms, the bending and stretching of the legs and the
bending and raising of the body together with the massage of the arms,
sides, legs, hips, abdomen, chest and back.
The movements of the legs, the upper body, the arms and hands in applying
the massage movements, exercise the muscles and nerves of the whole body,
except those of the head and neck. They influence all the internal organs
of the body.
The massage likewise influences the muscles, nerves, glands, vessels and
organs of the whole body except those of the head, neck, the middle of
the uppermost part of the back and the feet.
The deep breathing profoundly influences the lungs, the blood, the
nervous system, the digestive system, the heart, the liver and the
respiratory muscles.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 8
Massaging down both sides of the lower back alternately, with the back of
each hand; at the same time turning the trunk to the right and left.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect, with chest thrown forward and
shoulders back, but without strain, heels about five inches
apart and with the feet either pointed slightly outward to each
side or parallel to each other, arms hanging loosely at sides.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 8.
Fig. 8 A. Fig. 8 B.
Fig. 8 C. Fig. 8 D.]
Without altering position of legs and feet, turn the trunk around to the
right so that, if possible, the chest and shoulders are facing squarely
to that side, then turn it to the left, then to the right again, and so
forth, alternately. During this movement of the trunk, stroke continually
downward over each side of the back from the end of the shoulder blade
to the buttocks with the back of each hand alternately. The hands are
not clenched, but only half closed. After one stroke is executed that
hand is lifted slightly outward from the body and placed underneath the
shoulder blade to begin stroking again. The same movement obtains with
the opposite hand alternately. Thus the hands come into contact with the
tissues only when moving downward on the back (Fig. 8 A, B, C and D). The
speed should be about one stroke a second.
_This exercise done five times will take about twenty seconds.
If counting each time the trunk is turned to either side, it
will be ten counts._
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 8_
This exercise is combined in such a manner that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the turning of the trunk to each side together
with massage of the lower back.
The movements of the body and the arms and hands in applying the massage
movements exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders,
the upper chest, the upper and lower back, the hips and the sides of the
body. They also influence the kidneys.
The massage influences the muscles, nerves and vessels of the lower back.
It also influences the kidneys, bladder and liver and, through the back,
the nerves leading to the abdominal organs.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 9
Massaging with the right hand from the outer side of the left thigh,
upward over the left hip and lower side of trunk, continuing from there,
inward and upward over the left nipple or breast and upper chest and
across the latter outward to the right armpit. Then, stroking with the
left hand from the outer side of the right thigh upward over the right
hip and lower side of trunk, and continuing from there, inward and upward
over the right nipple or breast and upper chest and across the latter
out to the left armpit; at the same time bending the upper body slightly
forward and to the right and left.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect, with heels about eight inches apart
and feet nearly parallel, legs and feet kept stationary.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 9.
Fig. 9 A. Fig. 9 B.
Fig. 9 C. Fig. 9 D.]
Bend the trunk forward and slightly to the left and place the right hand
transversely on the outside of the left thigh in such a way that the four
fingers are close together and pointed outward and backward (Fig. 9 A).
From there, stroke with the right hand, upward over the side of the left
thigh, hip and lower side (Fig. 9 B) and inward and upward over the left
nipple or breast and upper chest and outward to the right armpit; at the
same time raising the trunk.
When the hand strokes across the upper chest the upper body is bent to
the right, but not forward (Fig. 9 C).
Release the right hand at the right armpit; while the upper body is
still bent to the right, bend it forward and place the left hand on the
outer side of the right thigh (Fig. 9 D) stroking from there upward over
the right hip, lower side and inward and upward over the right nipple
or breast and upper chest, outward to the left armpit; at the same time
raising the upper body. This time, however, the trunk is bent to the
left, as the hand strokes the upper chest outward to the left armpit.
Begin again with the right hand on the side of the left thigh and
continue thus each side alternately.
_This exercise done five times will take about twenty-five
seconds. If counting each time when commencing to stroke from
the side of the hip, it will be ten counts._
NOTE I. When stroking and pressing upward over the side of each thigh,
let the raising movement of the trunk pull the arm and hand up as far as
the motion permits.
Exercise No. 9 A
_Position._—The same as in exercise No. 9.
Here the same movements are done as in Exercise No. 9, but the following
arm exercise has been added:
While the right hand strokes upward over the left side and upper chest,
and the body is raised and bent to the right, the left outstretched arm
is carried or swung around to the back and upward over the head to the
front and down on the outer side of the right thigh, so that it reaches
there when the right arm is released at the right armpit. The right arm
then performs a similar movement, while the left hand is stroking upward
over the right side.
This is somewhat similar to a swimming arm movement. It is also very like
the motion used in throwing hand grenades.
NOTE I. Women with well-developed breasts, who might find it somewhat
difficult to stroke inward and upward over them, may stroke more or less
sideways inward over the breasts, or raise the palm or the back of the
hand slightly outward from the body.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 9 (9 A)_
This exercise is combined in such a way that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the bending of the upper body forward and to
the sides, together with massage of the outer side of the thighs, the
hips, the lower sides of the body, the chest and breasts.
In bending the body forward and to the side, in order to stroke upward
over the opposite side from the thigh, the body makes a sort of twisting
movement which is especially beneficial for the muscles of the lower
sides, the upper abdomen and the lower back, as well as for the liver.
These muscles then become stretched when the hand strokes outward to the
armpit, on the other side of the upper chest, and the body is bent to
that side.
The movements of the body and arms in applying the massage movements,
exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders, the back, the
chest, the lower sides and the diaphragm. They also influence the liver,
the heart and the digestive organs.
The massage influences the muscles of the outer side of the thighs, the
hips, the sides of the body and the chest and breasts.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 10
Massaging with the left hand, from the side of the right hip, straight
across the lower abdomen to the left side. Then, with the right hand,
from the side of the left hip, straight across the lower abdomen to the
right side. Massaging again with the left hand from the side of the right
hip—but this time with the hand placed about four inches higher up—inward
and upward underneath the border of the false ribs to the sternum (the
bone in the middle of the chest, and to which the ribs are attached in
front). Then massage with the right hand from the side of the left hip
inward and upward under the false ribs to the end of the sternum, placing
the right hand on top of the left, when massaging with the latter and
vice-versa.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect, heels about six inches apart and
feet pointed slightly outward, legs and feet stationary.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 10.
Fig. 10 A. Fig. 10 B.
Fig. 10 C. Fig. 10 D.
Fig. 10 E. Fig. 10 F.
Fig. 10 G. Fig. 10 H.]
Place the left hand with the right on top transversely over the outer
side of the right hip in such a way that the fingers of the left hand
are pointing outward or around toward the back, and the hand is in line
with the lower abdomen (Fig. 10 A). Stroke thus from there, straight
across the lower abdomen just underneath the umbilicus to the left side,
pressing continually with the right hand on top (Fig. 10 B and C).
Then stroke with the right hand and pressing with the left on top of it
from the side of the left hip directly across the lower abdomen from that
side, in the same way. (Fig. 10 D. Being similar to the movement just
completed, only one figure is shown here.)
Now, place the left hand, with the right on top of it, again on the side
of the right hip, but this time about four inches higher up, so that the
thumb is just above the crest of the ilium, or hip bone (Fig. 10 E).
Stroke from there, with the left hand, inward and upward underneath the
border of the ribs as far as the sternum (the bone in the middle of the
chest). The palm of the hand, which of course precedes the fingers, moves
at first slightly transversely (Fig. 10 F). The inner side of the ends of
the fingers are pressed in under the ribs with the help of the right hand
until they reach the sternum or where the ribs are slanting downwards to
the left side (Fig. 10 G).
Stroke now, with the right hand, the left pressing on top of it, from the
side of the left hip, with the thumb just above the hip bone, inward and
upward underneath the false ribs, that is, in the same way as was done
with the left hand from the right side. (Fig. 10 H. Here, likewise, only
one figure is shown.)
Thus, first stroke once from each opposite side across the lower abdomen,
then once from each opposite side inward and upward under the ribs. The
exercise has been executed once.
_Five times will take about forty seconds._
NOTE I. The trunk should be kept in an upright position and not bent to
the right, left or backwards. The abdominal muscles should be relaxed so
that the stomach and bowels are neither distended nor contracted, but are
held naturally.
NOTE II. The movements can, of course, also be done with one hand, but
because pressure should be fairly strong (especially in stout people)
to influence the digestive and abdominal organs and the nerve-centers
properly, it is best to use both hands, one on top of the other. The
strain will thus also be removed from the fingers when they are pressing
inward and upward under the false ribs.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 10_
In this exercise especial attention is given to the massaging of the
internal organs, muscles, nerves and vessels of the abdomen, without any
movements of the body except those of the arms.
The movements of the arms and hands in applying the massage movements,
exercise the muscles of the arms, the shoulders, upper chest and back.
The massage influences the digestive organs and glands as well as all the
other organs in the abdomen.
This exercise is very beneficial for all the digestive and abdominal
organs in women as well as in men. (See also chapter for women, page 17,
and Digestive Disorders in Supplement, page 88.)
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 11
Beating with the clenched hands (women may use the palm of the hand with
the fingers outstretched), upward over each side of abdomen and chest,
and bending the upper body backward at the same time; then beating
similarly downward, bringing the upper body forward to an upright
position, while the hands are beating downward over the chest.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect, legs and feet stationary.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 11.
Fig. 11 A. Fig. 11 B.]
Clench the hands. With the palm and the outer side of the fingers, which
are thus turned toward the body, strike first a light and quick blow with
the right hand on the right side of the lower abdomen (Fig. 11 A), then
similarly with the left hand on the left side of the abdomen, at the same
level. Then strike with the right hand again, one or two fingers’ breadth
further upward on the lower right half of abdomen, and again, with the
left hand, a little further up on the left side, and so forth, up over
the chest. When the hands reach the lower ribs, and while they are thus
beating upward, on each side of the chest, to the collar bone, the upper
body is bent backward, as far as possible, but without strain (Fig. 11
B). From there, beat the same way back and downward again over chest, at
the same time bringing the upper body forward to an upright position.
When the hands continue down over the abdomen, the upper body is thus in
a natural position.
The hands should give light, quick blows and rebound from the body each
time, as in the beating of a drum.
NOTE. Women may use the palms of the hands, with the fingers outstretched
and close together, when beating over the chest. Inhale the air while the
upper body is being bent backward, exhale while it is brought forward to
an upright position.
_This exercise done five times will take about ten seconds. If
counting every time when commencing to beat upward over the
abdomen, it will make five counts._
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 11_
This exercise is combined in such a way that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the bending of the upper body backwards,
together with the beating of the abdomen and of the chest.
The beating, which in massage is called tapotement, stimulates the nerves
and contracts and stimulates the muscles, if the blows are given very
lightly and quickly. Stronger and harder blows cause a benumbing effect
upon the nerves, and should therefore be avoided.
The movements of the trunk and the arms and hands, in applying the
beating, exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders, the
back and the abdomen.
The beating influences the nerves, vessels, organs and muscles of the
abdomen and the chest. It stimulates the heart and loosens the execretion
from the lungs.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 12
Massaging transversely over the left shoulder, continuing downward over
the upper left part of the chest with the right hand, then, in the same
way, over the right shoulder and upper chest with the left hand.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 12.
Fig. 12 A. Fig. 12 B.]
With the four fingers and thumb close, place the right hand transversely
over the left shoulder in such a way that the fingers are reaching as
far down on the upper back as possible, the two or three first fingers
resting between the inner border of the shoulder blade and the spine, and
the thumb close to the base of the neck (Fig. 12 A).
Stroke thus with the palm of the hand, the fingers pressing more or less
between the shoulder blades and spine as they move upward, transversely
over the shoulder, continuing down the same side of upper chest (Fig. 12
B).
While the right hand is thus stroking the left shoulder and upper chest,
the left arm and hand is brought across and up over the right forearm to
the right shoulder, and this shoulder is massaged continuing downward
over the upper part of the left chest, in the same way, as soon as the
right arm is released from the left side of chest.
The right hand is then again brought over the left shoulder and across
the left forearm and that shoulder massaged, and so forth, alternately
and evenly.
_This exercise done five times will take about ten seconds. If
counting each time when commencing to stroke each shoulder, it
will be ten counts._
NOTE. Men may stroke downward over the chest as far as the diaphragm, if
desired.
Women should only stroke as far as the breasts, and not over them.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 12_
This exercise is combined in such a way that there is obtained the
movements of the arms together with massage of the shoulders and the
upper chest.
The movements of the arms and hands, in applying the massage movements,
exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders, the upper
back and the upper chest.
The massage influences the muscles, vessels and nerves of the shoulders
and the upper chest. It increases the flow of blood to the muscles
surrounding the lungs.
This exercise, like No. 2, is especially beneficial for stiffness in the
shoulders and upper chest, resulting from golf or other over-exertion in
kindred sports.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 13
Massaging with each hand simultaneously upward over each opposite thigh,
hip, lower side of body and inward and upward over nipples or breasts and
upper chest and stroking down each side of the lower back and buttocks;
at the same time, bending and raising the upper body.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect, heels about eight inches apart,
and feet nearly parallel, legs and feet kept stationary, knees
straight.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 13.
Fig. 13 A. Fig. 13 B.
Fig. 13 C. Fig. 13 D.
Fig. 13 E. Fig. 13 F.
Fig. 13 G. Fig. 13 H.]
Without bending the knees, bend the upper body forward and cross the
right forearm over the left, or the left over the right, placing the
right hand transversely over the front of the left thigh, just above the
knee; the fingers of the hand are kept close together and pointing to or
around the other side of the thigh. Place the left hand in the same way
and at the corresponding place on the right thigh (Fig. 13 A).
Stroke thus upward over the front of each thigh with both hands
simultaneously, continuing from there, in the same way upward over hips
and lower sides of the body (Fig. 13 B and C), and inward and upward over
the nipples or breasts and upper chest, where the hands cross each other
and continue outward to their respective sides underneath the armpits
(Fig. 13 D, E and F).
Then, barely moving the arms, turn the hands from there around on each
side of the back, and without here clutching the hands stroke now with
the backs of the hands and fingers, downward over each side of the lower
back and buttocks (Fig. 13 G and H).
The upper body is, of course, raised while the hands are stroking upward
over thighs and hips and bent slightly backward while stroking inward and
upward over the chest.
_This exercise done five times will take about fifteen seconds._
NOTE. When stroking and pressing upward over the front part of the thigh,
let the raising movement of the trunk draw the arms and hands up as far
as the motion permits.
_Combined with Deep Breathing_
A special deep breathing exercise may be added in the following way:
Fill the lungs with air through the nose, while stroking from thighs up
over sides and chest.
Retain this air in the lungs, while the hands are stroking down the back.
Exhale this air through the mouth, while bending the upper body forward
in order to stroke upward over the thighs again.
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 13_
This exercise is combined in such a manner that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the bending of the trunk forward and backward,
together with massage of the front of the thighs, the hips, the lower
sides, the chest and breasts, the lower back and buttocks.
The movements of the body, arms and hands in applying the massage
movements, exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders,
the chest, the back, the abdomen and the hips. They also influence the
abdominal organs and the heart. The nerves of the legs are stretched.
The massage influences the muscles, vessels and nerves of the front of
the thighs, the hips, the lower sides, the breasts, the chest and the
lower back. It also influences the heart and the kidneys.
THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISE No. 14
Massaging, with the left hand, from the lower left side of the upper
body and with the right hand from the upper right side of the upper body
simultaneously straight across the lower and upper chest respectively to
the reverse side and back again; at the same time turning the upper body
to right and left.
_Detailed Description_
_Position._—Standing erect, heels about five inches apart, feet
nearly parallel, legs and feet stationary.
[Illustration: EXERCISE NO. 14.
Fig. 14 A.
Fig. 14 B. Fig. 14 C.]
Place the left hand, with the four fingers and thumb close, transversely
on the lower left side of the body, underneath the line of the nipple or
breast, and in such a way that the fingers are pointing toward the middle
of the chest. Place the right hand in the same way on the upper right
side of the body, just underneath the armpits (Fig. 14 A).
Now, stroke with both hands, from each side at the same time, directly
across the chest and as far over on the opposite side as possible (Fig.
14 B and C). Stroke back again the same way.
The left hand thus strokes from the left side underneath the nipples
or breasts over on the right side and back again, while the right hand
strokes from the right side across the upper chest, over on the left side
and back again.
At the same time, turn the upper body slowly from side to side without
altering the position of the legs and feet. The turning of the body and
the stroking should be done evenly and not jerkingly.
_This exercise done five times will take about fifteen seconds.
If counting each time the trunk is turned to either side, it
will be ten counts._
Exercise No. 14 A
(_Combined with Rolling of the Trunk_)
The massaging over the chest as done in No. 14 may also be done, while
the trunk is rolled around in the following way:
Place the feet further away from each other—about ten inches.
Begin stroking the chest, as described. Without altering the position of
the legs and feet, bend the upper body forward; from there roll and bend
it over to the right, continuing rolling and bending it backward, then to
the left and around to the front, terminating in a forward bending. Stop
here and with the body still bent, roll in opposite direction, that is,
to the left, back, right and front.
The hands are, of course, stroking evenly across the chest during the
rolling.
The trunk may be rolled around first two or three times to the right, and
then two or three times to the left.
Three times each way around is equivalent to five executions.
_This exercise done five times will take about twenty seconds._
_Analysis and Effects of the Combined Massage Exercise No. 14_
This exercise is combined in such a way that there is obtained the
movements of the arms and the turning of the trunk, together with the
massage of the chest and the upper sides of the body.
The movements of the body and arms and hands in applying the massage
movements, exercise the muscles and nerves of the arms, the shoulders,
the upper and lower back, the sides and the abdomen. This also influences
the kidneys.
The massage influences the muscles and nerves of the chest and the sides,
likewise, the heart, the liver and lungs.
_Effects of Exercise No. 14 A_
In No. 14 A the rolling exercises the muscles and nerves of the abdomen
and lower sides to a greater extent than does the turning in exercise No.
14.
PROPER BREATHING
Nothing is more important than breathing for maintaining life, and it
should be given much more attention than is customary. This may be done
not only by practicing the special and general breathing exercises for
several minutes one or several times daily, but also by acquiring the
habit of proper breathing all the time. It is a curious fact that when
the stomach is in need of more food, it is filled and sometimes to
excess, but although the lungs are always in need of more air, they are
mostly only filled about one-half and not completely, and this in spite
of the fact that air is one of the few gifts of life.
In order that the reader may notice the effect of proper natural
breathing and to acquire the habit, it may be advisable to try the
following experiment:
Place a watch nearby. Breathe slowly, deeply and regularly for one or
several minutes, inhaling the air each time through the nose and exhaling
it either the same way or through both nose and mouth simultaneously.
From twelve to sixteen respirations should be done per minute.
Try occasionally to breathe with the diaphragm, that is, instead of
first allowing the chest to expand, when inhaling, push the abdomen
and diaphragm out first during the beginning of the inhalation and the
chest during the latter half part of it. This is beneficial for all the
digestive organs and their nerves. The most important thing is to breathe
deeply, so that the air also reaches the bottom or points of the lungs.
Of course, twelve or sixteen respirations can be taken per minute and the
lungs become only half-filled just the same. This will not be of any
benefit. On the contrary, it might cause anaemia, and its accompanists,
such as neurasthenia, melancholia, fear, etc. Breathing in the right way
will produce better blood, more nerve power, and last, but not least, a
good humor.
Apropos humor,—there are authors who, now and then in the titles of their
books or articles, admonish one to be cheerful, to laugh and smile so as
to avoid illness. Further perusal of the text, however, will show that
they admit that this depends chiefly upon the physical condition, and
they advise the practice of exercises, in order to make people physically
fit first. This is, of course, true, since it is difficult for most
people to be of a good disposition and smile and laugh when the body is
not in fit condition.
SPECIAL AND GENERAL DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES
These breathing exercises done separately or between the massage
exercises will develop the chest and lungs. Causing more oxygen to be
introduced into the blood and increased elimination of carbonic-acid
gas, the blood is enriched, the energy increased and power developed to
withstand or repulse attacks of disease. A direct as well as an indirect
influence is also produced upon all the vital organs of the body.
_The Special Deep Breathing Exercise_ No. I
_Position._—Standing or sitting erect, with shoulders back, but without
strain, arms hung loosely downward to sides.
1. Inhale as deeply as possible through the nose.
2. Retain the air for one or two seconds.
3. Join the lips in such a way that a small opening remains in
the middle and throw only a small quantity of air violently
through this opening; retain the respiration, again throw out a
little air in the same way; retain again, and so forth, in the
same way, until the lungs are completely emptied of air.
4. Take a shorter but deep breath, lasting from three to five
seconds.
This exercise acts as a washer and cleanser of the lungs in forcing the
pure air into the corners of the lungs and pushing out the foul air
accumulated.
_The Special Deep Breathing Exercise_ No. II
_Position._—Standing or sitting erect, with shoulders back, but without
strain, arms hung loosely downward to sides.
1. Inhale as deeply as possible.
2. Retain the air in the lungs as long as possible, without
strain.
3. Exhale the air vigorously through the open mouth.
This exercise has a beneficial influence upon the system of respiration,
the blood and the nervous system.
_The Special Deep Breathing Exercise_ No. III
_Position._—Standing erect, with shoulders back, but without strain, arms
hung loosely downward to sides.
1. Inhale as deeply as possible through the nose.
2. Stretch both arms easily outward to sides in line with
shoulders.
3. Bring the hands to the shoulders, gradually contracting the
hands in such a way that when they reach the shoulders the
fists are very strongly clenched.
4. During this tension of the muscles, bend the fists rapidly
outward and inward from ten to twenty times.
5. Exhale the air vigorously through the mouth, at the same
time dropping the arms loosely downward to sides.
6. Take a shorter but deep breath, lasting three to five
seconds.
Besides being beneficial to the lungs, the respiratory muscles and the
heart; this exercise is also very beneficial for the vitality of the
nerves, especially those of the brachial plexus (the nerves of the arms,
shoulders, upper back and upper chest).
_The General Deep Breathing Exercise A_
1. Arms hanging loosely at sides or place hands on hips, elbows
and shoulders thrown backward, without strain.
2. Inhale as deeply as possible, at the same time rising on
toes.
3. Exhale through the mouth, at the same time sinking on heels.
_The General Deep Breathing Exercise B_
_Position._—Arms outstretched horizontally to the front and parallel to
each other.
1. Inhale as deeply as possible, at the same time bringing the
arms horizontally outward to the sides and continuing as far
back as possible, while rising on toes.
2. Exhale through the mouth while dropping the arms slowly
downward to the sides and sinking on heels.
Exercises _A_ and _B_ may also be done without rising on toes, but this
exercise greatly strengthens the feet and ankles and the muscles of the
legs and gives a good poise.
When practicing the breathing exercises _A_ and _B_, both legs may be
bent and stretched at the same time, and this will further strengthen the
legs.
All these breathing exercises are especially beneficial for singers and
public speakers.
SPECIAL REMARKS
Always inhale through the nose.
The breathing exercises may, of course, be practiced separately either
indoors or outdoors.
If practiced indoors, it is important to have good ventilation in the
room.
If slight dizziness should result when practicing the special breathing
exercises separately, begin moderately, and as the lungs become stronger,
this feeling will gradually diminish.
Practicing the three special deep breathing exercises five times each,
without any long pause between, should consume about five minutes. From
five to ten minutes is sufficient for one performance and, as a rule,
this time limit should not be exceeded. They can, of course, be practiced
several times a day.
SYNOPTIC REVIEW OF THE COMBINED MASSAGE EXERCISES
This is added to assist ready memorization of the exercises and
their order, after having studied and learned them from the detailed
description.
In the margin is stated the average time—in seconds—for doing each
massage exercise five times and likewise the time limit—also in
seconds—for interval breathing where indicated.
It will thus serve as a guide when practicing all the exercises together
as a daily course.
No. 1
TEMPLE, HEAD, NECK AND THROAT
[Sidenote: 30 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) the temple, head, neck and
throat; at the same time bending the head forward and backward.
At this and at the other intervals where it is indicated,
practice the special deep breathing exercise No. 1, once. Or
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Practice the general deep breathing exercise _A_ once or twice,
but without rising on toes. Time not to exceed fifteen seconds.
If special deep breathing is done while practicing the massage
exercises themselves, no deep breathing should be done between
them.
No. 2
ARMS, SIDES AND ACROSS LOWER CHEST
[Sidenote: 30 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) each arm, side and directly
across the lower chest alternately; and at the same time
exercising the arms and shoulders.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 3 or (3 A—from a lying position)
EACH LEG AND STRAIGHT ACROSS ABDOMEN, ALTERNATELY
(_Similar to Rowing_)
[Sidenote: 30 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) with both hands, first the
right leg, from ankle upward, and straight across abdomen to
the left side, then the left leg and straight across abdomen
to the right side; at the same time bending and stretching the
legs and also bending and raising the trunk.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 4
EACH SIDE OF BODY AND STRAIGHT ACROSS LOWER CHEST,
ALTERNATELY
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) each side of body, from side
of thigh, at knee upward and straight across the lower chest,
alternately, with each hand; at the same time bending the trunk
from side to side.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 5
BOTH LEGS, ACROSS LOWER CHEST AND ABDOMEN INWARD AND
UPWARD ACROSS CHEST, OUTWARD TO ARMPITS AND DOWN THE
BACK AND BUTTOCKS
[Sidenote: 30 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) each leg from behind,
simultaneously with each hand, upward over each hip, straight
across the lower chest (from the left side with the left
hand) and at the same time straight across the abdomen (from
the right side with the right hand) to opposite sides, from
there inward and upward across chest, outward to armpits, then
downward on each side of lower back and buttocks; at the same
time bending and raising the trunk.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 6
BOTH SIDES OF BACK AND BUTTOCKS—TURNING
[Sidenote: 10 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) each side of lower back and
buttocks, simultaneously with each hand; at the same time
turning the trunk to the right and left.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 7
[Sidenote: 60 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) the right leg and straight
across abdomen, as in exercise No. 3; then the right arm, down
the right side and across lower chest, as in exercise No.
2; then the left leg and across abdomen; and the left arm,
side and across lower chest; then from each opposite side
simultaneously, inward and upward across chest, outward to
armpits; then downward on each side of the back and buttocks;
finally swinging the arms around to the front and vibrating
or pushing the skin and underlying tissues sideways on each
opposite side of lower chest; at the same time bending and
stretching the legs more or less, and also bending and raising
the trunk.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 8
EACH SIDE OF LOWER BACK—TURNING
[Sidenote: 20 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) down each side of lower back
alternately with each hand; at the same time turning the trunk
to the right and left.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 9 or (9 A with additional arm movement)
EACH OUTER SIDE OF OPPOSITE THIGH, OPPOSITE HIP, INWARD
AND UPWARD ACROSS CHEST, OUTWARD TO ARMPIT,
ALTERNATELY
[Sidenote: 25 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) from each outer side of
opposite thigh, upward over opposite hip and inward and upward
across chest, outward to armpit, alternately with each hand; at
the same time turning and bending the trunk slightly forward
and also bending it from side to side. (If the exercise is done
ten times or more, practice both No. 9 and 9 A, half the number
of times each.)
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 10
ABDOMEN
[Sidenote: 40 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) with the left hand from the
side of the right hip, straight across the lower abdomen; then
the same movement with the right hand, from the left side;
thereafter, again with the left hand, from the right hip,
inward and upward underneath the false ribs to the end of the
breast bone; then the same movement, with the right hand, from
the left side,—the other hand pressing on top of the one which
is massaging.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 11
BEATING OVER ABDOMEN AND CHEST
[Sidenote: 10 sec.]
Beating upward over abdomen and chest and down; at the same
time bending the trunk backward and forward to upright position.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 2—Repeated
ARMS ONLY
[Sidenote: 30 sec.]
Practice here again Massage Exercise No. 2, but without
massaging down sides and across lower chest—five times will
here be sufficient.
No Deep Breathing Here
No. 12
SHOULDERS AND UPPER CHEST
[Sidenote: 10 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) transversely over the left
shoulder, downward over the upper left chest with the right
hand; then across the right shoulder and downward over the
upper right chest, in the same way, with the left hand, and so
forth, alternately.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 13
BOTH FRONT ASPECTS OF OPPOSITE THIGHS, HIPS AND SIDES
OF LOWER BODY, INWARD AND UPWARD ACROSS CHEST AND
DOWNWARD ON BACK AND BUTTOCKS
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) each upper leg in front
simultaneously, from just above the knees, upwards over hips
and lower sides of body, with arms crossed (the right leg, hip
and lower side with the left hand, and the left leg, hip and
lower side with the right), continuing inward and upward across
chest, outward to armpits, and downward over each side of lower
back and buttocks; at the same time bending the trunk forward
and backward.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
No. 14
UPPER AND LOWER CHEST—TURNING
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) from the lower right side
of the upper body with the right hand, and from the upper
left side of the upper body with the left hand simultaneously
straight across the lower and upper chest to opposite sides and
back again; at the same time turning the trunk to the right and
left.
No Deep Breathing at this Interval
No. 14 A
[Sidenote: 20 sec.]
Massaging (stroking and pressing) straight across the upper and
lower chest, as in exercise No. 14, but instead of turning,
roll the trunk around in a circle.
Three times each way around is equivalent to five executions.
[Sidenote: 15 sec.]
Deep Breathing
[Sidenote: Total 10 minutes]
(_Without considering the pauses between the massage exercises
and the deep breathing exercises._)
Practicing thus all the combined massage exercises five times each, and
using fifteen seconds for the deep breathing at each of those intervals,
where indicated, will require about twelve minutes, provided, of course,
that the pauses between the massage exercises and the deep breathing
exercises are not too long.
The five-times-limit is purely arbitrary and has been selected merely as
an illustration.
Practicing all the massage exercises ten times each, and in the manner
just explained, will not necessarily make the whole performance last
twice as long, as when they are practiced five times each, because the
time for the breathing exercises will remain the same.
When explaining in the detailed description how special deep breathing
can be done during the practice of massage exercises Nos. 5, 7 and 13,
it was with the particular intention that this should be done chiefly in
instances where one or two of these exercises are practiced separately
and when the performer has only a few minutes to spare. However, even
when all the massage exercises are practiced together, Nos. 5, 7 and
13 may also be performed in that way, but in that case only natural
breathing and no special deep breathing exercises should be done at the
intervals.
On the whole, practice of a deep breathing exercise at the intervals
is more practical, although the one method is about as beneficial as
the other. But to do special deep breathing during the practice of some
of the exercises themselves, as well as at the intervals in the same
performance would be out of proportion.
HOW THE NUMBER OF EXERCISES FOR ONE PERFORMANCE CAN BEST BE DECREASED
Elderly people, children and others whose memory is not of the best and
who may, therefore, find it inconvenient to remember all the exercises
in the beginning or later can shorten the number of exercises for one
performance in the following ways:
Eleven Massage Exercises
Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14 and 14 A
Nine Massage Exercises
Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 12, 13 and 14
Seven Massage Exercises
Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 13 and 14
Six Massage Exercises
Nos. 1, 2, 3, 5, 9 and 14
Five Massage Exercises
Nos. 1, 4, 7, 13 and 14
Of course, these groupings may be modified in any other order and
number with benefit, but the ones here indicated are the best and most
practical. The ideal manner, however, is to practice all the exercises
together in the order mentioned.
ANOTHER SYSTEM
PRACTICING THE MOVEMENTS OF THE BODY WITHOUT THE MASSAGE
The movements or exercises of the arms, legs and the body in the combined
massage exercises may also be done without the massage.
Thus, when dressed, the arms, legs and trunk may perform the same
movements as when massaging, but without the hands touching the clothes.
Done in this way, the hands should move at a distance of about two
inches from the clothes and be firmly clenched while exercising, thus
contracting and concentrating on the muscles of the arms and also as far
as possible concentrating the mind on those other parts of the body put
into play by an exercise.
In this way another concentration system, similar if not better than the
Indian exercises, is obtained. Of course, this is not nearly as efficient
as when done without clothes and with the addition of the massage. It
might be desirable to try them in that way at a time when exercise is
needed, and there is no time, or convenience for the removal of clothes.
Deep breathing can also with great benefit be combined to some of these
exercises in the same way as explained under the detailed description of
the massage exercises.
SUPPLEMENT
HOW THE EXERCISES MAY BE UTILIZED IN SOME DISEASED AND DISORDERED
CONDITIONS OF THE BODY
The massage exercises and deep breathing exercises may be used with
benefit in certain stages of different diseases. This should, of course,
be done only on the recommendation of a physician.
Inasmuch as the same disease does not attack all people to the same
degree, it is, of course, impossible to state exactly when or at which
stage of a disease the patient might begin to practice the exercises.
Neither can it be said precisely how long an exercise or performance
shall last in each case; it will vary from five to twenty minutes. This
is a matter for the family physician to decide; however, the following
hints may be in order. If the use of the exercises practiced moderately
is recommended, begin them slowly for five or ten minutes daily (or
as long as advised by the doctor) with a light pressure of the hands,
and continue thus for several days. The exercises can then be made
more vigorous by increasing the pressure of the hands to a moderate or
stronger degree. The time can then likewise be increased to fifteen or
twenty minutes in proportion to the improvement in the condition and
strength of the performer.
It is not meant to imply that it is necessary to immediately hurry to
a doctor or hospital when disorders of a mild character occur; for
instance, a slight pain or stiffness in the muscles of one of the limbs
or other part of the body, a headache, obesity without complications or
slight constipation.
If three or more massage exercises are recommended for one performance, a
general deep breathing exercise can likewise be practiced between each of
those.
Here may be noted, especially for the interest of physicians, the
particular exercises which are most suitable for use in various diseases.
There are other conditions than the ones mentioned below, in which the
exercises might be used with benefit, but the following are the most
important:
Anaemia
Headache
Disorders of the Digestive System
Disorders of the Liver
Diabetes
Affections of the Lungs
Disordered Conditions of the Heart
Insomnia
Muscular Disorders
Nervous Diseases
Obesity
Curvature of the Spine
ANAEMIA
All the massage exercises may be practiced once or twice daily. In
addition, all the deep breathing exercises may be done separately,
without strain, for five or ten minutes, twice daily.
HEADACHE
Here special reference is made to massage exercise No. 1, although all
the exercises will prove of indirect benefit.
DISORDERS OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
(_Constipation—Gas in the Stomach—Stasis—Dilatation of the
Stomach—Chronic Dyspepsia—Deficient Peristaltic Action, etc._)
Reference is here made especially to massage exercise No. 10, and also
to Nos. 3 and 5. All the deep breathing exercises may be used. If the
patient is so weak that the trunk cannot be bent much, No. 10 may be
practiced first and Nos. 3 and 5 later. No. 10 can even be practiced by
patients confined to bed.
For dilatation of the stomach, chronic dyspepsia and conditions of
stasis, No. 10 is very beneficial, and may be used for ten or fifteen
minutes two or three times a day. It causes contraction of the stomach,
the pylorus is opened and the contents are emptied into the duodenum.
Sour and burning eructations, bad breath and taste in the mouth will
disappear. In these cases it is best to practice the exercise from four
to five hours after a meal. (The massage movements in No. 10 has been
taught by the author to several mothers from out of town, who have
applied them with success to their babies suffering from gas in the
stomach and indigestion caused by nervous disorders.)
In order to increase the flow of bile, pancreatic juice and the succus
entericus and to get a mixture of these, a well-known medical authority
in Europe massaged (stroking and pressing) the abdomen from the right
side toward the median line for about half an hour after the stomach
digestion had ceased. The average amount of the juices thus obtained in
each of twenty cases was from 40 to 50 c.c. This movement is included in
massage exercise No. 10 and also somewhat in exercises Nos. 3 and 5.
In a case of a dropped stomach or colon, a special movement of stroking
and pressing (especially with the fingers) may be used across the abdomen
in an upward direction, from each opposite side of the lower abdomen,
thus crossing the abdomen with each hand, alternately.
A good movement for breaking up adhesions in the region of the appendix
is stroking with the fingers of the right hand (pressing on top with the
left) upward over the appendix, the ascending colon and then continuing
over the transverse colon. For adhesions in the left side of the abdomen
a similar movement with the fingers of the left hand is recommended.
Massage exercises Nos. 10 and 3 are also here beneficial.
In order to relieve the bowels of their distension, one doctor in New
York advocated massaging the abdomen thirty hours after operations for
appendicitis and hernia.
DISORDERS OF THE LIVER
Reference is here made to massage exercises Nos. 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 14 and 14
A, as well as to all the deep breathing exercises.
They will stimulate the secretion of the bile from the blood and cause
readier transformation of excess sugar into glycogen.
The massage exercises are also beneficial for hepatic engorgement.
DIABETES
All the massage and deep breathing exercises are recommended for the
reason that they cause an increased oxygenation in all parts of the body
and will therefore help to prevent abnormal deposits of sugar.
AFFECTIONS OF THE LUNGS
(_Pneumonia—Tuberculosis—Asthma_)
Massage exercises Nos. 2 and 14 are here especially referred to as well
as all the deep breathing exercises.
Convalescence from pneumonia has been shortened and eased by massaging
the painful muscles which are at times concomitants of lung affections.
The massaging over the chest will cause freer breathing and expectoration.
In the first stage of tuberculosis all the massage exercises done with
a light or moderate pressure and all the deep breathing exercises,
practiced once or twice daily are beneficial.
In asthma all the exercises are likewise recommended.
DISORDERED CONDITIONS OF THE HEART
In severe cases, massage exercises Nos. 2 and 14 may be used, with a
light pressure for five minutes, two or three times a day. The special
deep breathing exercise No. 2 and the general deep breathing exercises
may also be practiced slowly and without strain.
For milder cases reference is made to massage exercises Nos. 2, 4, 5, 9,
13 and 14.
INSOMNIA
All the massage exercises practiced for ten or fifteen minutes without
exertion half an hour before going to bed are recommended.
MUSCULAR DISORDERS
(_Stiffness and Pain—Atrophy and Distrophy—Lumbago_)
For stiffness in the neck, use massage exercise No. 1.
For stiffness in the shoulders, massage exercise No. 12 is beneficial.
For muscular disturbance in an arm, massage exercise No. 2 is recommended.
For pain in the muscles of the lower back, massage exercises Nos. 6 and 8
are very beneficial.
For muscular disturbance in the lower limbs, massage exercises Nos. 3 and
3 A may be used.
For stiffness in the muscles of the upper chest, massage exercises Nos.
12 and 14 are indicated.
NERVOUS DISEASES
(_Neuritis—Neuralgia—Sciatica—General Nervousness or Neurasthenia_)
In any kind of nervous disease of a mild character, all the massage
exercises and the deep breathing exercises might be practiced two or
three times a day.
For neuritis or neuralgia in the arms, massage exercise No. 2 can be
practiced, after the acute stage has passed.
For facial neuralgia, massage exercise No. 1 is recommended, with
stroking from each cheek instead of from the temple.
In sciatica, massage exercise No. 3 is beneficial; if the attack is
severe exercise No. 3 A may be used.
In cases of general nervousness or debility resulting from overwork,
strain or other cause, all the massage exercises can be used from ten to
twenty minutes two or three times a day, according to the condition of
the patient.
In cases of partial paralysis of an arm or leg, exercises Nos. 2, 3 or 3
A may be used respectively.
OBESITY
All the massage and deep breathing exercises are recommended.
If most pronounced, about the waist, reference is especially made to
massage exercises Nos. 3, 3 A, 5, 7, 10, 11 and 14 A.
In the case that the heart and other organs are not especially affected,
the performer may practice these massage exercises with a strong pressure
for twenty minutes or more, or until practically tired out.
CURVATURE OF THE SPINE
Although all the massage exercises may here be used with benefit, Nos. 6,
8, 13, 5 and 1 are especially referred to.
In hospitals where children (mostly girls from ten to sixteen years of
age) attend gymnastic classes for correction of the spine no massage
treatment is given them as a rule. This is probably because there is
no time for both exercises and massage treatment. The latter, however,
would greatly help to nourish and strengthen the weak muscles which are
associated with curvatures of the spine.
In massage exercises Nos. 6 and 8, and to a lesser degree in Nos. 13
and 5, massage of each side of the back (except the uppermost parts)
is obtained at the same time. No. 1 is included in the ones especially
recommended, because the movements of the arms in this exercise
strengthens the upper part of the back.
* * * * *
In all diseased or disordered conditions, proper breathing at all times
should be remembered.
*** End of this LibraryBlog Digital Book "Massage & Exercises Combined: A permanent physical culture course for men, women and children: health-giving, vitalizing, prophylactic, beautifying : a new system of the characteristic essentials of gymnastic and Indian Yogis concentration exercises combined with scientific massage movements: with 86 illustrations and deep breathing exercises" ***
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