Tuina Massage: Authentic Chinese Massage Therapy

Tuina massage, pronounced, as “Twee-nuh” comprises the Chinese words, Tui, which means “to push” and Na, which means “to lift”. Using this push and lift movement, many therapists would use Tuina to guide the flow of “Qi”. This technique is also accompanied by other manipulation techniques that help people to balance their “Qi” altogether and achieve self-healing remedies within the body and an overall therapeutic experience.

Besides applying pressure to acupoints and different parts of the body, therapists would also utilise varying pressure techniques. They can be applied with different force and speed, and even with longer or shorter durations. Depending on the type of blockage within the body, some Tuina massages can be more “Yang” which refers to a stronger, dynamic and energetic session to remove deep blockages, while others can be more “Ying”, referring to a gentle and more calming session to achieve a meditative type of outcome.

On this note, there are eight basic techniques involved in a Tuina massage, they are:

• Pushing (tui)
• Holding (na)
• Palpating (mo)
• Rejoining (jie)
• Opposing (duan)
• Lifting (ti)
• Pressing (an)
• Kneading (mo)

For more specific body issues, specific types of methods can be used as well to heal the body. They are:

• The Rolling Method

This method focuses on the soft tissues in our body. Using gentler techniques, it helps to treat injuries and sprains.

• The One-finger Pushing Method

This method utilises one finger to stimulate the acupoint and is often used to treat any internal diseases.

• The Nei Gong method

This method involves full body manipulation to rejuvenate any depleted body systems. This unique form of technique helps to generate “Nei Gong Qi”, which refers to energy that starts within the body, and energy that later flows outward of the body.

• The Bone Setting Method

Focusing on the musculoskeletal system, this method helps to remove injuries in the joints and any nerve pain by realigning the joint movements and improving disabilities.

However, depending on your health problem or the type of pain you wish to address, the therapist may use one or several methods in a session. To enhance the effects of a Tuina massage, you may also couple it with lotions, ointments and herbal poultices.

Although a powerful form of therapy, it is impossible for Tuina to cure all health problems. Due to various reasons, some health conditions may not be suitable to be treated with Tuina as they may result in further injury or infections. These include:

• Fevers
• Bone fractures
• Ligament tears
• Tumours

If you are prone to fractures or inflammation, or if you have an open wound, it is best to seek medical help or consult your doctor first before engaging in Tuina.

While Tuina massage is generally safe, some people may experience some discomfort during or after a session, particularly if they are going for the “Yang” type of treatment. It is important to note that some side effects of this massage may include the following:

• Slight bruising
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Short-term pain

Due to the application of pressure on acupoints of the body, Tuina massage is not recommended for pregnant women as it may affect the baby or the pregnancy. Instead, you can opt for our prenatal massages or our relaxing neck and shoulder massage.