What is a Tui Na Massage?
Tui Na is a form of massage that involves applying pressure to energy channels, also known as meridians, through techniques such as kneading, rolling, and acupressure. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) where an unobstructed flow of Qi is needed for a balanced body. Tui Na is also considered one of the four main branches of TCM alongside acupuncture, herbal remedies, and qi gong, seeing the body as an interconnected system. Therefore, practitioners will work on the entire body instead of focusing on a specific area.
What are the Techniques of Tui Na Massage?
During a Tui Na session, your practitioner will use a variety of arm and hand techniques. They are aimed at manipulating the body’s soft tissues, muscles, and energy channels to assist in healing and balance.
Here are the common techniques you might encounter during a session of Tui Na:
Kneading is one of the most common techniques in Tui Na. It involves the practitioner using their palms, fingers, and knuckles to knead and press the body’s muscles and soft tissues. This is believed to help in stimulating blood flow and promote relaxation. Pressing, similar to kneading, involves the application of firm pressure to specific points on the body known as acupressure points. This is normally done through the use of fingertips, thumbs, or palms. By targeting these points, the practitioner aims to ease tension in your muscles and improve the movement of Qi.
Rolling, as its name suggests, involves the application of pressure in circular motions to your muscles. When combined with another technique known as stretching, they can assist in improving mobility and loosening stiff muscles. Nei gong (內功) a full-body manipulation technique that is often combined with qi gong, is designed to increase the amount of qi and rejuvenate any depleted part of the body.
How is Tui Na Different From Other Types of Massages?
As Tui Na is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, they both share several philosophies and principles. It is performed to unblock the flow of Qi in the body, and may also be used alongside other TCM treatments such as acupuncture and herbal remedies. While it and other types of massages share the similar goal of promoting relaxation and alleviating tension, several differences can be found in Tui Na.
Techniques Used
The massage uses a variety of techniques such as kneading, rolling, and stretching. In addition to alleviating tense muscles, they also aim to stimulate specific acupressure points and meridians. As part of TCM, practitioners believe that a smooth flow of Qi is essential to a healthy human body and can improve overall well-being.
Used Alongside Other Treatments
If you were to visit a TCM doctor, don’t be surprised if they suggest you have a few sessions of Tui Na. This massage may be used alongside treatments such as acupuncture, dietary modifications, and herbal remedies. Your doctor may also recommend specific Tui Na techniques, as well as specify the intensity to which they should be applied.
Goes Beyond the Muscles
Tui Na does not only focus on muscles but extends to balancing the Yin and Yang in the body through stimulating meridians and acupressure points.
What are the Benefits of Tui Na?
Harmonise the Mind and Body
If you are going through a hectic time in life, why not consider going for Tui Na? Tui Na is not just physical as it also has a calming and grounding effect on the mind. The rhythmic and deliberate movements can help reduce stress and alleviate mental tension, promoting a sense of harmony in both mind and body.
Customised To Your Needs
Whether you are looking to relieve stress, unblock the flow of Qi, or aim to improve your overall wellness, Tui Na can be customised to your wants and needs. With a wide range of techniques available, your practitioner can mix and match them to provide a session that is tailored to a specific request.
Takes a Holistic Approach
Tui Na practitioners will take into account your lifestyle habits, any present conditions, and even your posture when carrying out the massage. They may also provide advice on other steps you can take to better your health by providing suggestions on stretches, stress management techniques, or dietary changes.
Where Can You Find Tui Na Massage in Singapore?
TCM Clinics
There are TCM clinics, such as Liang Yi TCM, which offer Tui Na massages in Singapore as part of their treatments available. You can visit us and speak with our TCM practitioners regarding the massage to understand more. If you decide to proceed with selecting the clinic as your service provider, you can expect that a consultation will take place to better understand your needs and goals.
Wellness Centres
Wellness centres in Singapore focus on promoting health and well-being through various therapies, which could include Tui Na massage. These centres often provide a calming environment, set to put your mind at ease.
Spas
Spas may offer a range of pampering treatments, which may include Tui Na massage, to help customers unwind. Such a massage at spas may be included in treatment packages or offered as a standalone treatment. The focus of spas is to provide a space for customers to relax and be away from the hectic city life we are familiar with.
Are You Interested in Tui Na Massage in Singapore?
At Liang Yi TCM, we provide Tui Na massage as part of our wellness therapy, and TCM treatments. If you would like to know more, feel free to contact us and we will be in touch soon.