Body work therapy has been in practice as long as acupuncture and herbal medicine. Only recently has it become a recognized form of traditional Chinese medicine. Body work therapy covers a range of techniques that are based on Chinese medical theory. Some of the most widely known include acupressure, shiatsu, amma and qigong. Body work therapy uses manual and sometimes, mechanical treatments.
Definition
Body work therapy treats the body, mind and spirit along with the energy field, or Qi, that surrounds the body with pressure or manipulation. Chinese medical principals for assessing and evaluating the body's energy field are the basis for body work therapy. Traditional techniques are used to balance the energy field to restore health, as well as to maintain health. All forms of body work therapy use touch. Some involve light touching, others specific motions and still others may use herbs and hot and cold applications.
Types
Acupressure balances the body's energy by using pressure on specific areas to release tension and improve circulation. There are many methods of stimulating these specific body pressure points to strengthen weaknesses and restore the life force to the body. Shiatsu is a Japanese technique of finger pressure, similar to acupressure. Six forms are recognized by the American Organization of Bodywork Therapies of Asia. Amma is from Korea. It is a form of touch therapy combining deep tissue massage with pressure and touch to pressure points as well as muscles, ligaments and joints. Its purpose is to remove blockages and free the energy flow in the body. Holistic nutrition and eastern dietary principals are also part of the treatment in Amma. Qigong has existed for centuries. It uses a variety of techniques such as breath training, meditation and guided visualization that assist practitioners in Qi transference and replenishment. Qigong includes exercises that may be used by individuals at home. Other types include tai chi, healing massage, and traditional Thai massage.
Benefits
Regular body work therapy can be beneficial. Aches and pains can be relieved, stress can be reduced and sleep can be improved. Some people notice a decrease in symptoms of disease or illness, an improved mental outlook as well as better health. Good flow of Qi is seen as a sign of health and regular body work treatments can keep your Qi flowing properly. A quote from Dr. Mehmet Oz emphasizes the benefits of body work therapy: "If you want to be healthy and live to 100, do Qigong."
Safety Concerns
Generally, pain is not a part of body work therapy. Some mechanical treatments such as cupping and moxibustion might cause bruising or slight discomfort in some cases. Body work therapy does not include puncturing the skin or any other invasive procedures, so it is considered to be a safe therapy. Many U.S. states require body work therapists to be licensed, so their practices are regulated. Additionally, therapists must be trained and there are a number of organizations to oversee training and certification.
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