What is Tui Na?

Tui Na is therapeutic massage that originated and is widely practiced in China. It is one of the four main branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the other three branches consisting of Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine and Qi Gong.

Tui Na literally means pushing method (Tui) and holding method (Na), two hand techniques used in the massage treatment. Tui Na however is far richer in its methods than many common forms of massage. A practitioner will use finger pressure, hands, palms and the arms to effect treatment, dependent upon the condition and body type being treated.

Tui Na treatment offers a wide range of benefits, both physiological as well as psychological, with increased well-being, sense of euphoria and increased body healing processes.

Tui Na is excellent treatment for, stiff neck, stress, headaches and migraines, diabetes, low energy, back pain, sciatica, rheumatism, arthritis, any joint pain or muscular pain, RSI repetitive strain injury and sports injury to name but a few...

Treatment usually consists of a thorough consultation prior to treatment, through questioning and in some cases physical examination. Tongue and pulse may be observed to ascertain the condition of the internal organs. The practitioner will then explain what Tui Na is, answer any questions, and explain what to expect during the treatment.

You will then be positioned either on a massage couch or sitting for the treatment. The practitioner will guide you as to how to position yourself. There is not usually any need to disrobe for treatment, unless herbs, moxibustion, cupping or oils are to be used on the skin for additional benefit of the massage.

During the treatment, a cotton cover is used over your body with hand techniques applied through the sheet. Various finger, hand, arm and elbow techniques may be applied. Not only does the treatment work directly on the muscle groups but also the Acupressure points and meridians. This dramatically increases the effectiveness of massage to you.

After treatment you may be given recommendation for your diet, lifestyle or exercises to assist the healing, strengthen the body and lessen the effect of disease or condition returning to the body.

More information on Tui Na can be found at www.tuinauk.com