Tui Na

The  principles  of  Chinese  medical  massage  originate  from  yin-yang  theory, five element  theory,  and  channel  theory. Through  various  techniques massage seeks to regulate  the  flow of qi  and blood in  the body. Chinese  massage not only affects the  relationship  between   muscles, tendons, bones  and joints  but  can  affect the internal  organs as  well.  For example, through  physical  stimulation of the stomach

Cupping

channel the function of  the  spleen organ can be  improved.  Because  massage  regulates  and  harmonizes both the  channels  and the internal organs, it can increase one’s overall vitality.   

Cupping is the use of  glass jars  applied to the skin with heat or pressure to create a partial  vacuum.   The  strong  suction  produced  by cupping  is similar to a deep tissue  massage  in that  it draws  out  toxins  from  the  underlying tissue and can activate the lymphatic  system. Specifically, it releases qi and  blood  stagnation in   

the channels and reduces swelling and pain. While it is mainly used for muscle pain, it can also be effective in treating respiratory problems, coughs and wheezing.   The localized bruising that occurs after a cupping treatment is normal and expected and will fade within a week.  

Moxa

 Moxa (Latin:  Atremisia Vulgaris;  Pin Yin: Ai Ye)  is a  dried  herb  that  is burned either directly   

 on  or  above the  skin at  specific  acupoints  such that  the  heat warms the qi and blood in the  channels. In modern times indirect moxa (no contact with the skin) is the more common choice.   

 Often moxa will be used to supplement the acupuncture treatment.   

Traditional Chinese Medicine

with

Aiesha Abel

Licensed Acupuncturist, MSTOM