Massage therapy has been a vital tool for relaxation, healing, and overall well-being for centuries. Whether you’re a professional therapist looking to deepen your knowledge or someone interested in self-care, the right book can be a game-changer. In this article, we’ve curated the Top 10 Best Books on Massage that cover various aspects of massage therapy, from techniques to the science behind it. Each book has been selected for its depth of content, author expertise, and ability to enhance your understanding of massage.
Author: Rachel Thompson | Licensed Massage Therapist & Wellness Writer
Rachel Thompson is a licensed massage therapist with over 15 years of experience. She specializes in therapeutic massage and has a passion for educating others about the benefits of massage therapy.
Uncover the Best Books on Massage Therapy
If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of massage, these top 10 books offer the perfect mix of practical techniques, insightful theories, and self-care tips. Each book has been handpicked to ensure it provides valuable knowledge, whether you’re a novice or an experienced therapist.
10. Fascial Release for Structural Balance, Revised Edition: Putting the Theory of Anatomy Trains into Practice
Author: Thomas Myers
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (269 ratings)
This revised edition by Thomas Myers dives deep into the science of fascia and how it impacts structural balance. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the structural aspects of massage.
Why We Chose It:
Myers’ work is renowned for its comprehensive approach to fascia, making it essential for understanding how massage can affect the body’s structure.
Fun Fact:
Thomas Myers is also the author of the highly regarded “Anatomy Trains,” which has become a staple in the study of human anatomy related to movement and massage.
Buy Fascial Release for Structural Balance and elevate your understanding of body mechanics.
9. MBLEx Test Prep – Comprehensive Study Guide and Workbook 2024-2025
Author: David Merlino LMT
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (96 ratings)
For those preparing for the Massage and Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx), this study guide by David Merlino is an invaluable resource.
Why You’ll Love It:
The guide is comprehensive, covering everything you need to know to pass the MBLEx, making it a must-have for aspiring massage therapists.
Fun Fact:
David Merlino is a licensed massage therapist with extensive experience in both practice and education, which makes this guide particularly reliable.
Get MBLEx Test Prep and ace your licensing exam.
8. Tuning the Human Biofield: Healing with Vibrational Sound Therapy
Author: Eileen Day McKusick
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (2,330 ratings)
Eileen Day McKusick’s book introduces readers to the concept of biofield tuning, a fascinating area where massage meets sound therapy.
Why We Chose It:
This book is perfect for those interested in exploring alternative therapies that complement traditional massage practices.
Fun Fact:
McKusick is an innovator in the field of sound therapy, and her work has been praised for its practical applications in stress and pain management.
Purchase Tuning the Human Biofield and explore the healing power of sound.
7. Acupressure’s Potent Points: A Guide to Self-Care for Common Ailments
Author: Michael Reed Gach
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (1,546 ratings)
Michael Reed Gach’s book is an excellent resource for those interested in learning about acupressure, a practice that complements massage therapy.
Why You’ll Love It:
The book is user-friendly, making it easy to apply acupressure techniques at home for various common ailments.
Fun Fact:
Gach is the founder of the Acupressure Institute in Berkeley, California, and has been a pioneer in bringing acupressure into mainstream practice.
Order Acupressure’s Potent Points and start your self-care journey today.
6. The Anatomy of Stretching, Second Edition: Your Illustrated Guide to Flexibility and Injury Rehabilitation
Author: Brad Walker
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (1,934 ratings)
Brad Walker’s comprehensive guide to stretching is an invaluable tool for massage therapists and anyone interested in injury prevention.
Why We Chose It:
This book stands out for its detailed illustrations and practical advice, making it a top pick for those looking to enhance their flexibility and overall wellness.
Fun Fact:
Brad Walker, also known as the “Stretch Coach,” has worked with elite athletes and is recognized for his expertise in stretching and sports injuries.
Buy The Anatomy of Stretching and improve your flexibility today.
5. The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook: Your Self-Treatment Guide for Pain Relief (A New Harbinger Self-Help Workbook)
Author: Clair Davies NCTMB
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (2,880 ratings)
This workbook by Clair Davies offers a practical approach to understanding and treating trigger points, a key component in massage therapy.
Why You’ll Love It:
The book provides easy-to-follow instructions, making it accessible even for those new to the concept of trigger points.
Fun Fact:
Clair Davies was a licensed massage therapist who developed this book based on his personal experience with chronic pain, offering a genuine, empathetic perspective.
Get The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook and start relieving pain today.
4. Student Workbook for Biel’s Trail Guide to The Body
Author: Andrew Biel
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7 out of 5 stars (736 ratings)
This workbook by Andrew Biel is designed to accompany the “Trail Guide to the Body,” offering exercises that enhance learning.
Why We Chose It:
It’s a perfect complement to Biel’s main text, providing practical exercises that help reinforce anatomical knowledge crucial for massage therapists.
Fun Fact:
Andrew Biel’s books are widely used in massage therapy
schools across the United States, making this workbook an essential resource for students.
Order the Student Workbook for Biel’s Trail Guide to The Body and boost your anatomical knowledge.
3. The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding: The Bible of Bodybuilding, Fully Updated and Revised
Author: Arnold Schwarzenegger
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (8,603 ratings)
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s classic book is more than just a guide to bodybuilding; it’s a comprehensive resource that includes valuable insights on muscle anatomy, which is crucial for effective massage therapy.
Why You’ll Love It:
The book’s in-depth exploration of muscle groups and training techniques makes it an indispensable resource for massage therapists focusing on sports massage.
Fun Fact:
Schwarzenegger’s book has been a bestseller for decades and remains a go-to resource for both bodybuilders and massage therapists alike.
Buy The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding and expand your knowledge of muscle anatomy.
2. The Book of Lymph: Self-Care Practices to Enhance Immunity, Health, and Beauty
Author: Lisa Levitt Gainsley
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (824 ratings)
Lisa Levitt Gainsley’s book focuses on lymphatic massage, a powerful technique for boosting immunity and promoting overall wellness.
Why We Chose It:
The book is highly informative and offers easy-to-follow techniques for lymphatic drainage, making it a valuable addition to any massage therapist’s library.
Fun Fact:
Gainsley is a certified lymphatic drainage therapist with over 20 years of experience, making her book a trusted source for this specialized massage technique.
Purchase The Book of Lymph and enhance your self-care routine.
1. Trail Guide to The Body
Author: Andrew Biel
Category: Massage
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (1,448 ratings)
Andrew Biel’s “Trail Guide to The Body” is the ultimate resource for anyone serious about understanding human anatomy as it relates to massage therapy.
Why We Chose It:
This book is a staple in massage therapy education due to its detailed anatomical illustrations and clear, concise explanations.
Fun Fact:
The “Trail Guide to The Body” is used in over 2,500 educational programs worldwide, making it a trusted resource for massage therapists everywhere.
Get Trail Guide to The Body and master the anatomy of the human body.
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