Anti-Cancer Longevity and the Power of Massage

Madame Soong Mei-ling, the former First Lady of the Republic of China, was born on March 14, 1897, and passed away on October 24, 2003, at the remarkable age of 106. Recognized as one of the most influential female political figures and diplomats across three centuries, she is also notable for her extraordinary health story. Around the age of 40, she was diagnosed with both malignant breast cancer and ovarian cancer—yet she lived to 106, an exceptionally rare case among cancer survivors. What contributed to her longevity?

A key factor appears to have been her lifelong dedication to massage. In her younger years, an aide, Guo Sumei, was assigned to provide daily massage. Additionally, two nurses alternated each night to perform a full-body massage routine, covering everything from the eyes and face to the chest, abdomen, legs, the tops of the feet, and soles. In her later years, these routines became even more meticulous: two nurses still alternated daily, performing massages before her nap or bedtime.

From a medical perspective, massage offers multiple health benefits. It promotes blood circulation, relieves muscle tension, and boosts metabolism. Massage can also reduce fatigue and stress, enhance overall comfort, and support immune function. For older adults in particular, regular massage is invaluable for maintaining bodily functions and easing both physical and mental tension.

Madame Soong’s method combined Eastern acupoint theory with Western lymphatic drainage techniques. Research from the Department of Dermatology at Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons shows that just three minutes of facial massage daily over eight weeks can increase microcirculation by approximately 21%, delivering anti-aging benefits nearly three times greater than standard skincare routines.

Of course, receiving daily care from nurses or massage therapists is a luxury few can afford. Today, modern massage chairs and massage robots have made these health benefits accessible to everyday households, bringing the same principles of circulation, relaxation, and wellness into daily life.