Benefits of Tuina

Working within anyone's field can either help or hinder a client or practitioner. Learning the various techniques of tuina coupled with the various exercises has proven to be invaluable for practicing the healing arts. By understanding the body and it's various systems, subtle energies can be detected when there is a blockage. Learning the sequence of movements is effective for alternating movements which keep the practitioner safe from repetitive stress injury and is more capable of addressing a wider part of the bodies energy system.

To begin, use Tui. Tui smooths out the energy of the client and starts to build a relationship with the hands and the field of the practitioner. The client is capable of warming up to the touch. For the practitioner, it is a way to get in touch with the environment (or body) of the client. Often we find where an earring might snag, or a belt loop or pocket. Smoothing the energy out we can also begin to sense where there might be tension or stagnant energy. Tui is the first contact with the wei qi and the most superficial layer we will work with and calms the nervous system.

The next movement is Na. This is a gentle squeeze and grasp that Tuina is famous for. By squeezing out the tissues, we are now working on a blood level. Na over the entire body, and notice where there might be more skin than in other places, notice where the skin isn't pliable and doesn't want to move. The fascia and lymph benefit from all the movements but begin to be engaged here. Na will help you sense where to focus the other techniques. Much like the pulse, the layers applying to Qi, Blood, and Body fluids, we are working the layers of the body to promote more collaboration between the levels of the body.

Approaching deeper layers of the body even still, An corresponds more with the water element with it's wavelike motion, rocking the body loosening out any tension in the sinews down to the bone. Mo is next which is indicated by a quick polishing of certain areas or points. This is intentional and warming and great for trigger points and acupoints. Sau is a scratching type of movement meant to bring the circulation up to the surface and to the exterior. The fire element corresponds with this warming, Yang movement. Da is penetrating and dispersing, and resembles a "stone being tossed into a pond" with the way it ripples down into the bones and vibrates the surrounding skin increasing circulation and movement to the area.

The client experiences great benefit from using different movements in a session. The sessions can then be catered to the client depending on what things would be addressed in the session. By keeping a good flow of all of the movements, each session will be a well rounded sensory and relaxing experience.

For more information take a look at these links and contact me to set up a session.
http://www.balanceflow.com/BAtuina.htm
http://www.qi-journal.com/TCM.asp?-token.SearchID=TuinaFAQ