Qi & Chi - How Do Massages & Acupuncture Compare with Chinese Medicine?

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Since the beginning of the 20th century, massage therapy has been recognized in Thailand as a valid medical profession. Modern Thai culture is embracing massage. It can be used by both men as well as women of all ages. Read on to learn more about Thai massage therapy.

Tui na, the traditional name for Tuina massage, is one of Thailand's most popular massages. Tui na comes from traditional Chinese medicine like acupuncture, moxibustion and fire cupping. It is used frequently in combination with moxibustion or acupuncture, acupuncture and fire cupping, Chinese herbalology, tai Chi, or other Chinese forms internal energy work, and traditional eastern medicine. This type of massage aims to improve the flexibility and balance of all major organ systems. Tuina massage can be used to treat headaches, high blood pressure and back pain, as well as conditions like tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, and migraines. Tuina massage can also reduce pain in these areas, as it increases mobility of the soft tissue surrounding the area.

Tuina Massage is also very effective in improving blood circulation. Increased circulation is thought to be beneficial in fighting infection, boosting energy, and speeding up recovery after injury or surgery. Masseuses will use their fingers and palms to apply pressure to specific areas of the body using acupressure. Traditional chinese medicine masseuses use their fingers and palms to massage specific areas of the body and release energy patterns.

Myofascial release is another important principle in this type of massage. Myofascial releases are a principle which states that the injured muscles, tendons, and ligaments should be allowed pull free from the tissue and supporting muscles. When this happens, it relieves pain and tissue restriction. This is necessary because if a tendon or muscle does not allow it to stretch out, then it will not heal properly. This is muscle weakness.

Shiatsu massage is another one of the many forms of this therapy that are used today. Shiatsu massage is a massage that uses the thumbs, fingers, and palms of the therapist to massage various areas of the patient's bodies in order to restore their chi, or energy. ( chi is the energy that permeates everything in and around us; in a person, it means the "life-force energy" that nourishes the organs and is responsible for all movement in the physical body.) Shiatsu may be used to correct an imbalance in the spine, such as when a patient has herniated discs.

If you have an injury, it can be very painful, especially if it has been awhile since you got hurt. A massage can help you to relax and get well quickly. Another ancient Chinese medicine you can consider is acupuncture. Acupuncture can be described as a gentle, but powerful form of Chinese medicine. It's very effective in relieving pain and other ailments related to the muscles and bones.

There is a major difference between Chinese massage therapy and acupuncture. This is due to the emphasis of the practitioner. Chinese massage is more manual therapy than acupuncture. However, acupuncture relies on the connection between the practitioner of the treatment and the patient in order to heal the patient's condition. Balance between the yin-yang forces, which are the natural hot and cold forces in nature, is the key to success. Both Chinese medicine and Chinese traditional medicine are based upon the belief that the body is capable of healing itself. But, it must have a balance between them.

Clients who visit a spa or clinic that offers Traditional Chinese Medicine, such as acupuncture and massage, will likely receive the same treatment as those who use western modalities. There could be problems if the therapist doesn't know how to combine them. Ask lots of questions to ensure you feel comfortable talking with your therapist. Chinese Medicine has been used for centuries and the principles have not changed. Traditional Chinese medicine is available to help you with any kind of dis-ease.
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