Tui Na
Tui na means "pushing grasping," and is a powerful form of Chinese medical bodywork. Based on the same Oriental medical principles as acupuncture, tui na seeks to improve the flow of qi through the meridian channels. Tui na is particularly effective for conditions involving muscles, tendons and joints, such as structural misalignment, orthopedic problems and sports injuries. It can also be used to treat internal diseases.
Cupping
The ancient art of cupping has been used by healers and lay people in many cultures. Cupping is a suction technique designed to pull toxin build up and muscle spasms from the body’s deeper tissue to the surface of the skin. When toxins or cell waste stagnate in the muscles or joints, it can be very difficult for the body to get rid of this waste, causing further blockage and discomfort. The cells of the body use oxygen and give off carbon dioxide; when the energy is blocked, the cell waste or carbon dioxide gets blocked. Physical pain implies a blockage in the flow of energy through a particular area. Utilizing cupping we are able to suction, by pulling the blockage out of the deeper tissue using glass cups with fire. Once on the surface, it is much easier for the body to eliminate toxins through the superficial blood supply or capillary system.
In less than five minutes of cupping, not only can we pull toxin build up out of specific areas, but we can also pull the fresh new blood into those areas, which will vitalize and restore proper blood flow.
Cupping tells us the kind of problem with which we are dealing, as problems relating to toxin build up or muscle spasm will cause the skin under the cup to color, whereas issues dealing with nerve or bone will not color at all. Third, cupping will tell us the severity of the problem. Light or moderate blockage will cause the skin to color pink or red, and take a day or two for the color to go away. Severe stagnation can cause the skin to color a deep scarlet purple; it may take seven to ten days for the dark color to disperse.
The cupping sensation can be a bit painful for the first sixty seconds, the time during which most of the toxins are removed. Cupping is an extraordinary technique, and its effects are immediate. The healing process may be shortened by weeks, even months, by using cupping, a method that manually removes the energy blockage.
Make sure to stay out of the sun and the wind after cupping, to allow the cupping to do its magic.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion involves the heating of acupuncture points with smoldering mugwort herb (known as moxa). Moxibustion stimulates circulation, counteracts cold and dampness in the body, and promotes the smooth flow of blood and qi. This safe, non-invasive technique may be used alone, but it is generally used in conjunction with acupuncture treatment.
Qi Gong
Qi Gong means "life energy cultivation" and is traditionally seen as a method to cultivate and balance qi. The practice involves rhythmic movement, focused breathing, and concentrated awareness. Qi Gong is a safe and gentle meditative exercise that promotes healing of the mind and body.