According to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), all illness is a product of the restricted circulation of energy (qi) and blood. Chinese massage seeks to undo any blocks to the free flow of qi and return the body to a state of ideal health. During a treatment, a Chinese massage practitioner works on muscle tissues to free tension--just like a Western masseur--but also manipulates pressure points to release stagnation and move qi and blood on a deep internal level.
Theories
The focus on qi or energy--the vital force that permeates all things, including the human body--distinguishes Chinese massage from Western practices. Illness, stress and injury can all restrict the flow of qi and cause the internal organs to stagnate. Different pressure points affect different internal organs, notes John Cross, world authority in alternative healing systems and author of "Acupressure: Clinical Applications in Musculo-Skeletal Conditions." Manipulating points can target specific organ systems and speed healing from the inside out.
Types
If you are looking for a traditional Chinese massage practitioner, you are most likely to encounter zhi ya--acupressure point manipulation--or tui na, a vigorous, whole-body massage technique that includes muscle tissue massage, joint manipulation and pressure point manipulation, according to Maria Mercati, founder of The Bodyharmonics Centre of Oriental Medicine in Cheltenham, U.K., and author of "The Handbook of Chinese Massage." Amma therapy, an older modality that is less prevalent in the West, uses the application of deep pressure and point manipulation to promote healing.
Features
Because TCM works on the principle that the mind and body are strongly interrelated, a Chinese massage practitioner takes a thorough, broad-based history before your first treatment, using a protocol called the "Four Traditional Methods." Examining your appearance comes first. The practitioner will be especially interested in looking at your tongue--according to TCM, internal imbalances show clearly in its color, texture and coating. A verbal interview follows. The practitioner feels for illness by taking your pulse, and finally, will note any body odors, according to Tina and Robert C. Sohn, founders of the New Center for Wholistic Health Education and Research in Syosset, New York, and authors of "Amma Therapy."
Benefits
Acupressure or zhi ya massage has demonstrated positive effects on chronic pain conditions. Acupressure proved more effective than medication in relieving the pain of chronic headache in most patients, noted in a 2010 study published in "The American Journal of Chinese Medicine." Relatively few studies are available on the benefits of other Chinese massage modalities. However, practitioners of tui na claim that it can break down scar tissue, relieve joint disorders and ease stress, according to the website of Nature's Intentions Naturopathic Clinic in Toronto, Ontario.
Expert Insight
Perpetuate the effects of Chinese massage therapy by doing exercises that involve a combination of stretching and meditation, advises John Ottombrino, yoga instructor and tui na massage therapist practicing in San Diego, California. Ottombrino noted in a 1986 interview with "Yoga Journal" that people who practice arts like tai chi, qigong or hatha yoga learn to feel their own energy, and so are more able to appreciate and enhance the benefits of massage techniques like tui na.
References
- "Acupressure: Clinical Applications in Musculo-Skeletal Conditions;" John R. Cross; 2000
- "The Handbook of Chinese Massage;" Maria Mercati; 1997
- "Amma Therapy: A Complete Textbook of Oriental Bodywork and Medical Principles;" Tina Sohn and Robert C. Sohn; 1996
- "The American Journal of Chinese Medicine;" Effect of Acupressure and Trigger Points in Treating Headache; L.L. Hsieh et. al; 2010
- "Yoga Journal;" John Ottombrino; Patricia Mooney; May-June 1986
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