Hands-on: The Massage Table

Heisman Trophy holder Ricky Williams still plays for the N.F.L, but he's also a masseur-in-training. His spiritually adventurous nature has often led him on unconventional paths: At the height of his football career, he traveled around the world incognito, staying in hostels and studying ayurvedic medicine and yoga. In 2006, after suffering a broken arm and finding alternative treatment helpful, he took several classes in craniosacral therapy and discovered the rewards of healing others. Massage aids both physical and mental health--eight medically-proven benefits are summarized here.

In Other News:

Great Gadgets

An Australian deep-tissue massage therapist has invented this tool to soften scar tissue--even from old injuries--alleviating pain and speeding recovery. And here's something for your office: a forearm massager to combat keyboard strain. It's sure to be a conversation-starter.

Doulas, Hear This!

According to a Taiwanese study, foot massage helps new mothers get the rest they need.