Acupressure

Acupressure is an ancient healing method that delivers pressure to certain points on the body to relieve pain. It is similar to the method of acupuncture, in which needles are inserted into these points rather than solely applying pressure. It is is a way of accessing and releasing blocked or congested energy centres in the body. Traditionally, Asian cultures conceived of the points as junctures of special pathways that carried the human energy that the Chinese call chi and the Japanese call ki. Western scientists have also mapped out and proven the existence of this system of body points by using sensitive electrical devices.

Like all forms of massage, many of the effects of Tuina are brought about simply by its function of simulating the flow of Qi, blood, and the body fluids. Many of our health problems are caused by blockages in these vital substances, leading to pain, swelling, a build-up of toxins, and other symptoms. Getting things moving again re-establishes the proper functioning of the body and the recovery of damaged tissues. Tuina works holistically, treating the mind through the body and vice versa. It leaves people with a deep sense of physical and mental relaxation, revitalization and well-being. An important effect of Tuina is to bring a person's awareness back to their own body and what's going on in it - an essential first step in any healing process.

How is Acupressure Performed?

The treatments are performed on a floor mat or massage table, the client usually wears light or loose fitting clothing. Acupressure is usually given in a similar fashion to traditional massage. Points on the body are massaged using finger or thumb, and sometimes a blunt object, in a fairly rapid circular motion with a medium pressure. A session lasts anywhere from 30 to an hour. Some of the most common techniques are: Rubbing, Kneading, Percussion and Vibration. Fingers, hands, elbows, knees and feet are often used to massage other parts of the body.

Traditional Oriental medicine uses acupressure to maintain health and keep energy in balance while Westerners use it as a relief method for a particular problem. Therefore, acupressure in the United States is given on a regular basis for relief of health annoyances such as tension, nerves, headaches and nausea.

Persons with brittle bones, osteoporosis, or a history of spinal injuries should not be treated with acupressure due to the forceful pressure applied. Also, those with bleeding disorders take anticoagulant drugs or undergoing long term steroid therapy should consider avoiding the method because it could make the tissues fragile. Acupressure performed in the legs and/or feet could be detrimental if the patient has circulation problems. It can also aggravate carpal tunnel syndrome and caution needs to be considered when dealing with fragile, irritated skin.

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