Tui Na (Chinese Massage)

Tui Na (pronounced 'twee nar', and sometimes known as 'anmo') is ancient form of Chinese massage therapy. Although little known in the West, in China it ranks equally alongside the other branches of Chinese Medicine such as Acupuncture and Herbalism. It is some 3000 years old, and many modern massage styles such as Swedish massage and Shiatsu are derived from it.

Tui Na massage therapists work with both the physical body and the energetic body; They use what you would recognise as massage techniques to ease the knots and tension out of muscles, and at the same time work with the meridians and acupoints to regulate and balance the flow of energy (Qi). Sometimes, Tui Na is called 'acupressure massage' as it uses acupressure, and other manual techniques, to stimulate the same points that are used in acupuncture.

Tui Na can be broadly divided into Yin and Yang styles. Yin Style Tui Na is a very gentle healing practice using light touch. It regulates and balances the energy (Qi), clearing stagnation from the meridians and strengthening organ function. It is a deeply calming and relaxing treatment and is suitable for all internal conditions, stress management and for those who prefer a light touch or who dislike strong massage.

Yang style Tui Na is a more physical treatment that uses deep penetrating techniques to break down muscular tension. It is extremely effective on knots and tight muscles, but without being painful as some deep massages can be. It is similar to deep tissue massage or sports massage, and is very effective for pain relief and very tense or knotted muscles.

In actual fact, the skilled practitioner will use both Yin and Yang techniques as required, and most treatments are somewhere between the 2 extremes. There are no set routines, and treatments are always tailored to each person depending on individual needs.

The theory of Tui Na is the same as that of Acupuncture, so it has the same detailed diagnostic methods and complex understanding of the body and mind. This is what marks it as separate from most other massage. In Tui Na, the therapy is inseperable from the theory.

This makes Tui Na suitable for far more than just muscular problems, in fact it can be successfully used for the same kinds of conditions as acupuncture, including respiratory, circulatory, digestive, psychoemotional and hormonal problems to name a few. It is also of great benefit in maintaining health and dealing with stress.

Tui Na is rapidly gaining exposure and popularity in the UK. The newly formed Register of Tui Na Chinese Massage, of which Neil is a founding member, has been created to ensure high standards of training and practice, allowing members of the public to ensure that they in the hands of a skilled and fully qualified practitioner.

What To Expect

To begin with you will be given a full Chinese Diagnosis before treatment, just as you would if you were receiving acupuncture. The treatment itself will be tailored to your individual circumstances, and is often performed over clothing. Sometimes you may be asked to remove some of your clothing if oil is to be used. Naturally, every step is taken to ensure your modesty and comfort.

Even when strong techniques are used the practitioner uses cues from your body to determine the correct strength of the techniques – nothing should be unduly painful. In some cases only very light and gentle techniques will be used, but these can be just as effective.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Women should wear trousers or shorts rather than skirts, if possible.

 

For more information, or to book your 15 minute free consultation, just call or email

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