Traditional Chinese Medicine | | 21 Oct 2022
The majority of us value the occasional massage for some relaxation and rejuvenation. That’s why we opt for a massage after dealing with plenty of stress from work and life in general. However, did you know that massage techniques were first created for remedial purposes?
According to historical records that date back to 2700 BCE, massage practices are thought to have originated in China. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) massages emphasise healing, recovery, and energisation more than the more popular Swedish, Thai, and Javanese massages, which are often used as a type of muscular relaxation therapy.
This is why TCM massages are one of the best treatments to look for to promote healing and treating various ailments including hormonal imbalances and more. Let’s take a closer look at how TCM remedial massages does this and the benefits of getting one for you or even a loved one.
What is TCM Remedial Massage?
Remedial massage, sometimes referred to as Tui Na in TCM, is a treatment rooted in prehistoric China and dates back two thousand years. The term "tui na," which translates to "push grasp," depicts the variety of methods used in this type of massage, involving:
- Kneading
- Tapping
- Rubbing
- Pressing
The amount of pressure applied depends on the particular patient and might range from gentle on the skin to firm for deep tissue treatments. Acupuncture points are stimulated by applying pressure to treat specific ailments. Tui Na is similar to acupuncture because it stimulates specific acupoints with pressure applied with fingers rather than needles, and is frequently combined with acupuncture treatment.
Since this type of massage is a component of TCM health treatment in Malaysia, a comprehensive medical system that treats illnesses of all primary body functions, it can be used for various acute and chronic conditions, including:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Arthritis
- Fatigue
How Does It Work?
Tui Na massage draws its philosophy and ideas from traditional Chinese medicine. Hence, it prioritises a person's mental and physical health, and other factors like environment, relationships, and nourishment. The fundamental principle of Tui Na massage is that true health can only be attained when one has achieved harmony and balance within themselves and in their surroundings.
By removing blockages and disturbances that appear as illness, disease, and emotional problems, a Tui Na massage aims to restore balance to the yin and yang of the body. The qi and blood in your body are balanced by Tui Na massage, similar to acupuncture in that it uses the same energetic pathways and acupoints.
This promotes greater health and other health benefits, such as:
- Enabling your body to fight off virus easily
- Healthy digestion
- Strong immune system
TCM Remedial Massage Techniques
Tui Na practitioners will use pressure and oscillation techniques with varying strength and speed levels throughout a session. Tui Na massage can be performed as a more intense deep-tissue massage or a softer, more soothing therapy.
Some methods lean more toward yin, which is gentler, calmer, and meditative. On the other hand, the yang technique, which is more physical, vigorous, and dynamic, produces stronger sensations that stimulate deep barriers and knots.
To realign the body, the practitioner massages the muscles and tendons and utilises manipulation tactics. Muscles and joints can regain function through passive joint motions. Herbal poultices or compresses, lotions, and salves are used to increase the therapeutic benefits of the therapy.
Acupressure, myofascial release, and reflexology are the massage techniques used in Tui Na. Additionally, methods utilised in osteopathy and chiropractic, such as stretching and joint mobilisation, are occasionally used as well.
In Tui Na massage, there are eight fundamental techniques that a practitioner will use, which are:
- palpating (mo)
- rejoining (jie)
- opposing (duan)
- lifting (ti)
- pressing (an)
- kneading (mo)
- pushing (tui)
- holding (na)
What does it treat?
Tui Na massage can be used to regulate your well-being or manage pain and ailment. The methods used in Tui Na work well for relieving tension, promoting calmness, and improving sleep quality. It is frequently used to treat problems and conditions affecting the neurological and musculoskeletal systems.
The remedial massage can be used to treat the following conditions:
- neck and back pain
- musculoskeletal disorders
- premenstrual syndrome
- fatigue and insomnia
- carpal tunnel
- Headaches
- Arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Stress
- digestive conditions
- respiratory conditions
Considering Tui Na massage is an alternative therapy, you should consult your doctor to address any medical condition before using it.
TCM Remedial Massage Benefits
Tui Na is a supplemental therapy to Western medicine, particularly for illnesses involving the musculoskeletal or neurological systems. The best part is that it benefits people of all ages. Some of the other benefits include:
- Enhances blood circulation
- Relieves neck and lower back pain
- Improves mood
- Helps with postpartum lactation
- Helps with foot issues due to diabetes
- Promotes quality of life for cancer patients
- Alleviate carpal tunnel syndrome
Start Improving Your Wellbeing With Tui Na Massages
Doux Visage is the first leading TCM treatment centre in Malaysia to combine the power of Chinese Medicine with the goodness of Western beauty ingredients, Dr. Jenny Goh (PhD)'s speciality in treating health issues is second to none! Call us at +603 7728 6113, +6012 622 4868 or contact us.