Tuina Massage
Tuina (too-ee-na) is a form of Chinese Massage that has existed for thousands of years (since about 2700 BC), and it's one of the ancient therapeutic methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC).
Tuina is a method of Chinese bodywork characterized by the smooth gliding or rolling movements of the hands and arms. Through Tui (push) and Na (grasp), kneeding, pressing, rolling, shaking, and stretching of the body, acupoints are opened and qi flow is realigned in the muscle-tendon meridians.
Tuina techniques are used to relieve a wide variety of musculoskeletal and intermal organ disorders by opening stagnant meridian channels and encouraging the flow of qi into deficient areas. Tuina utilizes Chinese Medicine theory in assessing energetic and functional disorders
What is the Theory behind Tuina?
Chinese Theory states that disease and illnesses are caused by imbalances and blockages in the flow of Qi (the body's energy), which can result in stiffness, aches and pain.
Tuina is based on the same principles and theories as acupuncture, and is said to be like acupuncture without needles. Tuina uses various techniques to stimulate meridians (pathways of Qi) and points along the meridians to influence the flow of Qi. Tuina moves Qi, which is something that other modalities do not address.
How does Tuina affect the body?
Tuina works on the muscles and joints, but it also establishes the harmonious flow of Qi throughout the body, bringing the body's energy (Qi) and blood flow back into balance. This may allow the body to heal itself naturally. It also relaxes muscle tension and increases local circulation to relieve discomfort.
What are the Benefits of Tuina?
Tuina helps to stimulate the immune system and may also help to improve general wellness. Tuina enhances health maintenance, and is helpful for musculoskeletal concerns. It also assists the functions of internal organs and poor blood and lymph circulation.
Tuina increases relaxation to help decrease headaches, stress, stiff neck, sore back, trouble sleeping, pain -- just to name a few. Tuina also complements other TCM modalities.
It's common to do general non-specific Tuina maintenance sessions to help keep your Qi flow moving. Remember, Chinese theory says: Qi that is not moving causes stagnation, which shows up as pain, aches and stiffness.
