Tui-Na, pronounced twee na, is an ancient form of systematic massage treatment which originated in China during the time of Wang Di, The Yellow Emperor (2674-2575 BC). It is one of the three clinical treatment methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the other two being acupuncture moxibustion and herbal medicine, both of which are more commonly known and practiced in the West.

Tui-Na combines digital pressure, clinical massage and physical manipulation of the body and its energy points to eliminate pains and aches, promote the harmonious flow of energy, and encourage natural healing. Meaning push and grab, Tui-Na employs Chinese Taoist principles along with the Meridian and Channel Theories introduced by Wang Di to restore the body's balance and promote Chi (life force).

Direct contact with the skin is essential for the Tui-Na physician to detect what is underneath; to determine the condition of the body, its temperature, tenderness, and changes in color; to remove blockages or obstructions and to allow the free flow of blood and Chi; and to promote and transfer energy to the patient. No oils are used during treatment.

More akin to physical therapy than massage, Tui-Na is practiced widely in hospitals and medical centers throughout China. It is ranked equally with acupuncture and herbalism, and is often prescribed more frequently because it is less invasive and has known curative effects that neither acupuncture nor herbal medicine can achieve. With no known side-effects, it is also suitable for people of all ages.

In the last 20+ years, Western massage practitioners have begun incorporating the principles and methodologies of Tui-Na by using the acupoints and meridian systems. Reflexology and holistic massage are two prime examples of treatments based almost entirely on Tui-Na.  In Japan, Tui-Na evolved into Shiatsu. Similarly, chiropractic medicine employs a number of the physical manipulations developed centuries ago by the Tui-Na doctors of China. However, some of the manipulations still employed by Western chiropractors today were abandoned by Chinese Tui-Na physicians as they viewed these manipulations as likely or able to cause harm.

Because of its long history and proven efficacy, Tui-Na migrated across many continents and flourished outside of China. And while some of its core principles are cloaked in Taoist mysticism and remain a mystery for the average laymen, the idea of natural, self-healing is one that many people seek.

Upcoming topics: How one treatment session with Master Wong can relieve even the most acute condition; TCM Organic Diagnostic Methods; 14 Channels & Meridian Pressure Point Theory; Five Elements Theory; Foods to Reinforce Chi; Patient Q&A; Case Studies; and much more ...