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Seven types of Massage - Guardian July 2007
Think of lolling on the massage table is just about relaxation? Think again, says Jaqui Ripley. There’s a treatment out there to cure every type of ailment.
Tui Na
This has been used in China for 2,000 years, and many Chinese hospitals have dedicated Tui Na wards, where doctors treat patients for joint and muscle problems, insomnia and hypertension. Methods include the use of hand techniques to massage the muscles and tendons, acupressure to affect the flow of Qi (the Chinese term for Vital Energy) and manipulation. “Imagine the Spine as a tent pole and the muscles as guide ropes,” says Rob Williamson a practitioner and founder of the Plumb Blossom Clinic in Chelmsford. “Tui Na will try to re-educate the spine to realign through the musculoskeletal system by pulling the body into shape and allowing it to heal itself naturally.”
Chi Nei T’sang
Literally translated as “working the energy of the internal organs”, this was brought to the West by Taoist master Mantak Chia. It works on the principle that it increases energy flow to specific organs, so helping to dissolve physical and emotional blocks in the abdominal area. “It’s fantastic for helping resolve conditions such as IBS, bloating, lower back pain and gynecological concerns,” says Rob Williamson. “It’s not painful, but can be challenging. The Chinese class the abdomen as the emotional brain, so you can often feel tearful after a treatment.
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