What Is Traditional Chinese Massage?
This article is for beginners who want an overview of Tui Na. Chinese massage also known as Tui Na, is an ancient practice that aims to release the flow of energy around the body. Traditional Chinese Massage dates back 2,000 years!
Lots of skillful techniques are used including kneading, chopping and stretching the skin and muscles to relieve sore spots and blockages in the body’s muscular system.
Acupressure points are targeted areas of the body around groups of nerve endings, capillaries, and lymphatics.
By applying pressure to these points, the practitioner can produce biochemical changes and modulate the fight-or-flight response.
What do you wear for a Chinese massage?
The short answer is wear something comfy and easy to move in. The body is usually wrapped in thin cotton clothing for the treatment, which is more appropriate for public hospitals and clinics.
In smaller communities, the practitioner may work directly on the skin. This allows for easier contact with the qi and the application of herbal preparations. The massage is said to help the therapist and the patient communicate.
How is the massage performed?
The therapist will usually massage the patient while seated or lying on their back. A massage therapist can apply massage techniques to any area on the body.
In fact, Chinese medicine experts believe that qi, or energy, should flow freely throughout the body to alleviate stress and prevent disease.
Acupuncture has been practiced in China for thousands of years, and a good therapist can effectively balance your energy to alleviate pain. These techniques can also improve your sleep.
Tui Na techniques are not limited to acupressure points
There are many different techniques. One of the most popular methods is called Gua Sha, which is designed to relieve back, neck, and foot problems.
This form of massage is a great choice if you want to treat your back pain or neck discomfort. It will help relieve your respiratory issues, too. Many people comment they feel refreshed and rejuvenated after these healing massages.
Traditional Chinese massage focuses on the acupuncture points in the body.
Unlike regular massage, it is not a form of massage therapy. Instead, it is a holistic form of treatment that involves the use of acupoints, which are believed to help your body heal itself.
It can help relieve your stress and improve your circulation. For example, you can treat a backache by using acupoints on your back. Joint manipulation is another key part of TCM.
This technique aims to increase the range of motion of joints, promoting flexibility in the spine and limbs. The specific force, frequency, and direction of the movements will depend on the type of massage you receive.
For the best results, choose a health practitioner who, like me is licensed in Chinese massage and has passed government licensing procedures. A good Chinese massage can help many ailments so book your appointment now!