In ancient Greece, what was massage therapy referred to as?

In ancient Greece, massage therapy was referred to as "anatriptic art." The term "anatriptic" is derived from the Greek word "anatripsis," which means to rub or to massage. This reflects the historical context in which massage played a critical role in health and wellness practices. The art was not only focused on the physical aspects but also intertwined with therapeutic benefits that were believed to be essential for the maintenance of well-being and recovery from ailments.

The significance of this term emphasizes the structured approach that the ancient Greeks had towards massage as a form of therapy, differentiating it from mere relaxation or holistic wellness practices. Thus, "anatriptic art" captures the essence of how massage was perceived as a skilled practice carried out for specific health-related outcomes in ancient Greece.