2. Chinese massage therapy is believed to have originated in 2700 BC, which was practiced in tandem
with acupuncture, acupressure and usage of various Chinese medicinal herbs. These formed the
essential parts of the Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM. This massaging practice is called Tui na.
It is said, the principle behind this technique is the fact that, an imbalance in the energies of our
bodies, and in the pathways in which they flow, lead to stress, illnesses and certain diseases. These
diseases can be cured if the normal and natural flow of these energies is restored. Bodywork,
commonly called, massage, is a natural and harmless way to do so.
Tui na has different variants which are discussed below.
Amno, press and rub: used for rejuvenation and maintenance of health.
Tuina, push and grasp: used for treating injuries, joint and muscle problems and internal disorders.
Infant Tuina: used for babies and young children.
Dian Xue, point press: use of methods similar to acupressure, where certain pressure points in the
body are targeted for stress and pain relief.
Wai Qi Liao Fa, curing with external Qi energy: healing with direct transmission by Qigong masters
who have undergone several years of rigorous training and discipline.
3. How Does It Work?
It is aimed to activate and regulate the network of energy and enhance relaxation that raises
flexibility, eases spasms and straightens the joints. It is assumed that the dearth of free flow of Qi
and blood gives rise to pain. The massage causes movement and is a good solution for pain relief. It
is generally done on a couch or a stool. It is usually recommended along with certain dietary plan,
specific exercises and herbal medicines.
Pressure is applied by the fingers, limbs and palms to execute motions like nipping, pressing,
stepping and twisting. This results in relief of muscular stiffness, removal of blockages and
promotion of circulation.
Friction: Rubbing, pushing, gliding and wiping is carried out to create heat on the body surface and
improve the underneath circulation. Rhythmic small circular movements are used for abdominal
problems and gross scrubbing motions are used for the chest, limbs and back.
Swing: Finger-pushing, kneading and rolling is done.
Joint manipulation: Rotation, pulling, abducting and adducting actions assist in increasing the range
of joint motion and flexibility of the limbs and spine.
Percussion: Finger tapping is used on the head, abdomen and chest regions, fist striking is used for
the back and palm patting for the waist, hip and limbs.
Pinching and grasping: Rhythmic picking up and squeezing of the soft tissues are done by twisting,
holding, kneading and pinching with the operator's fingers. If the shoulder is grasped, this enables
to resume the flow of Qi in the chest.
Vibration: Rapid vibration, shaking and rocking a selected region is done to resume Qi movement,
get rid of stagnation and enhance gastrointestinal functioning.
Health BenefitsA few health benefits of Chinese Bodyworks are listed below.
Stress removal, reduction of depression and anxiety.
Freedom from headache, backache, bone ache, etc.
Aids in faster recovery of certain illnesses and weaknesses in the body due to diseases.
Helps in healing tissue and organ injuries by triggering fast cell growth and development.
Treats the problems of joint and muscle inflexibility or immobility.
Makes the skin glow and shine by increasing the blood flow.
Pregnancy massages are specially designed to ease stress and tension in the weight-bearing joints.
Impressed with the goodness of this massage therapy? Then check out your nearest Chinese
massage center and enjoy the rejuvenating effects of this therapy to feel relaxed and refreshed. But
don't forget to share your experience with us.
