Tui Na ("twee nah"), is an ancient form of massage dating from around 1700BC in China. It is not as well known as the others forms of Chinese medicine such as acupuncture and herbal medicine but modern Chinese healthcare incorporates tui na with as much importance as the other therapies.
The translation of tui na is "push and grab" and as this implies, reflects the fact that tui na is an intense and vigorous massage combined with the stimulation of acupuncture (acupressure) points.
The main difference between tui na and other forms of massage is that it is impossible to treat a musculoskeletal problem without also boosting the energy (qi) flowing in the body in the same way as acupuncture. In many cases, it can be difficult (or risky) to put needles into the relevant acupuncture points but they can be effectively stimulated with tui na.
What is tui na used for?
The Chinese Olympic teams use tui na to treat their sports injuries and tui na is used in place of physiotherapy, osteopathy, chiropractic manipulations, sports massage and sports therapy.
As well as being used for all musculoskeletal problems, tui na is also used to treat many of the conditions often treated with acupuncture. In China, abdominal massage is used as an integral part of weight loss programmes as the pummeling is believed to help break up fat deposits and normalise appetite.
Modified tui na can be used very effectively on babies and small children with similar benefits to acupuncture but without the trauma of needles. In China, tui na is routinely used to help with respiratory problems, asthma, colic, night crying and teething pain. Paediatric tui na is a more gentle form of the massage and usually produces significant improvements very quickly (as children have stronger qi energy flow). Many of the points used are on the hands and feet and can be taught to parents to be used during play etc. or whilst the child is asleep.
What to expect.
Tui na is more vigorous than other forms of massage (although it can be modified), involves moving the limbs, does not use oils and you will remain fully clothed. This makes tui na perfect for the office environment and those clients who are body-conscious.
At your first session, a full medical history will be taken along with some elements of Chinese diagnosis (e.g. taking the pulse and looking at your tongue). The session can be tailored to your requirements or can be used as a general all-over treatment.
The therapist will use a variety of massage techniques some of which are unique to tui na and are used to spread qi around the body. The massage is fast and strong and sometimes the acupoints can be uncomfortable, however the results are achieved by the very fact that the massage works deeply.
The massage is very different to what people often expect but they also tend to be surprised by how much better they feel after just one session. Tui na is very powerful and highly effective but obviously the longer you have had a problem, the longer it is likely to take to resolve.
If you have any questions regarding this form of therapy, then please don't hesitate to call or email Gill on 01242 222264 or info@rejuvenateu.co.uk