How to Get a Tui Na Massage

For those who like to follow an Eastern health regimen, tui na massage is integral to a maintenance program. The Chinese medicine system bases all physical and emotional health upon a balanced qi, the body's energy flow that regulates the removal of toxins and regeneration of tissue. Tui na massage addresses this principle by seeking to open the body's energy meridians by using gentle manipulation of acupressure points.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Licensed tui na massage therapist

1. Locate a qualified tui na massage therapist through a Chinese medicine clinic or holistic wellness center. Advertising and referrals from other massage therapists are further options.

2. Consult with your therapist, who is trained to relate physical symptoms to underlying ailments. Answer her questions regarding your eating, sleeping and exercise habits.

3. Ask questions about any of your body's systems or mental functions. Your therapist may have special insight into their interrelation.

4. Expect to get a hands-on diagnostic evaluation of your internal and external physical problems, as well as emotional conditions. Your therapist will design a holistic treatment based on your current qi and blood flow.

5. Enjoy the gentle pressure from your massage therapist's hands and feet on the acupressure points that relate to problem areas in your body.

6. Expect mild manipulation of your limbs or muscles to increase blood flow in your body.

7. Participate in gentle stretching of your limbs and torso as requested.

8. Drink plenty of water and refrain from heavy exercise afterward to aid in detoxification.

9. Follow suggestions for taking Chinese herbal supplements to treat ailments or deficiencies. These are often prescribed by Chinese medicine health practitioners who are trained in herbology, as well as tui na massage therapy.

Tips & Warnings

• You should not remove your clothing for a tui na massage. Bring or wear loose cotton clothing that is thin enough to receive light finger pressure through.

• Oils, gels or lotions are not used on the body in this type of massage.

• Tui na massage can work in tandem with acupuncture, and some therapists practice both modalities.

• Relate your previous medical history, as requested by your therapist, even it if doesn't seem relevant. All health issues are interrelated in Chinese medicine.

• Tui na massage is usually performed on a floor mat or cushion. If you have trouble lowering yourself to the floor due to obesity or arthritis, get a table tui na massage.

• Get a doctor's advice regarding any kind of massage or herbal supplements if you have heart or respiratory problems.