Derived from Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupressure is the art of balancing the body's energy through touch. This practice consists of applying pressure to certain points throughout the body with the idea that one can restore the flow of positive energy known as chi. While the primary objective of acupressure is universal, there are several different methods of acupressure that vary in practice and theory. While many people swear by the benefits of acupressure, it is not meant to replace conventional medical treatment. If you are concerned about your health condition, contact your physician.
Tui Na
Tui Na, which dates back to 1700 B.C., most closely resembles western massage techniques. It utilizes rhythmic compressions, kneading and friction along the body's energy channels, focusing on joint and muscle pain. Unlike traditional massage, Tui Na uses a lighter and more direct approach which addresses certain areas rather than the body as a whole. Using his hands, the practitioner will access the client's body to determine if there is a lack or overabundance of energy. According to practitioners, applying pressure to the channels around these areas can help redistribute the energy, restoring balance. In the western world, the practice of Tui Na most closely resembles that of a chiropractor or osteopath.
Shiatsu
Developed in Japan around 1900, Shiatsu was derived from the ancient Japanese practice of Anma massage. The literal translation of Shiatsu is "finger pressure" and, like Tiu Na, its intent is to restore the body's energy flow by applying pressure to acupoints along the body's energy channels. On the surface, a Shiatsu massage might appear ineffective due to the slow movement of the masseuse. However, this variation relies on slow pressure or the gentle rotation of the limbs using the thumbs or hands. The Shiatsu Society explains that these subtle external movements seek to make a complete realignment of internal energies. The application of pressure to these acupoints is said to increase the patient's energy flow as well as the circulation of blood.
Jin Shin Jyutsu
Although references to Jin Shin Jyutsu date back to 700 A.D, it was not until its rediscovery in the early 20th century that it became a widely known practice. Unlike Tui Na and Shiatsu practices which involve over 300 acupoints, Jin Shin Jyutsu utilizes a mere 26. These are known as safety energy locks, or SELs. The SELs are located along energy pathways and areas of the body where energy is likely to become blocked and stagnate. Initially, this stagnation only affects the area where it occurs, but over time that stagnation can spread and lead to imbalance throughout the entire body. Jin Shin Jyutsu practitioners use both hands to apply pressure to a combination of SELs, almost like a piano chord. Balance Flow explains that the pressure causes the SELs to release the blocked energy, helping to restore your balance. The core of Jin Shin Jyutsu is the belief that a person is able to help herself only by truly knowing who she is, both mentally and psychologically. Because of this, one of the advantages of Jin Shin Jyutsu is that there are several techniques that you can learn and apply to provide self-help and healing.
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