Striving4Zen

Tuina (Tui Na) is an Oriental Bodywork Therapy that has been used in China for 2,000 years. Tuina (Tui Na) uses the traditional Chinese medical theory of the flow of Qi through the meridians as its basic therapeutic orientation. Through the application of massage and manipulation techniques Tuina (Tui Na) seeks to establish a more harmonious flow of Qi through the system of channels and collaterals, allowing the body the naturally heal itself.

Tuina (Tui Na) methods include the use of hand techniques to massage the soft tissue (muscles and tendons) of the body, acupressure techniques to directly affect the flow of Qi , and manipulation techniques to realign the musculoskeletal and ligamentous relationships (bone-setting). External herbal poultices, compresses, liniments, and salves are also used to enhance the other therapeutic methods.

In a typical session, the client, wearing loose clothing and no shoes, lies on a table or floor mat. The practitioner examines the specific problems of the client and begins to apply a specific treatment protocol. The major focus of application is upon specific pain sites, acupressure points, energy meridians, and muscles and joints. Advanced Tuina (Tui Na) practitioners may also use Chinese herbs to facilitate quicker healing. Sessions last from 30 minutes to 1 hour. Depending on the specific problems of the client, they may return for additional treatments. The client usually feels relaxed but energized by the treatment.

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Labels: acupressure, chi flow, Chinese Herbal Healing, herbs, holistic healing, massage, Qi, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tui Na, Tuina

Pounding temples and lethargy can bite a hole in your day. Acupuncturist Aimee Raupp cures what ails you -- minus the pill popping and double espressos. Stimulate the body's natural healing abilities by pressing gently on these acupressure points with a fingertip or knuckle for 15 - 20 seconds.

Headaches: Find the groove between your 4th and 5th toes. Press the tendon on the side of your little toe, moving toward the ankle. Do both feet simultaneously.

Low energy: On the front of the leg -- 4 finger widths below the kneecap -- press the tender depression between the shinbone and the leg muscle.

Allergies: Squeeze your thumb and forefinger together. Press the center of the ridge formed on your hand near the crease of your thumb.

Menstrual Cramps: On the inside of the lower leg, press on the back of the shin bone 4 finger widths above the tip of the anklebone.

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Labels: acupressure, DIY, living holistically, natural health, natural therapy

More than 90% of headaches are classified as tension headaches -- which occur when the muscles in the back of your scalp and neck tighten.

Follow these head-wise tips for relief:

Ice, ice, baby: Apply an ice pack to the painful area -- on your forehead, temples or the back of your neck.

Rest, relax, repeat: Take a nap in a quiet, dark room or go for a walk to blow off steam. A warm bath also does the trick.

Me-ssage: Give yourself a mini acupressure massage by following these steps:

1. With one hand, press the indention at the base of your skull.

2. Use the thumb and forefinger of the other hand to straddle the bridge of your nose and simultaneously press firmly into the upper hollow of your eye socket.

3. Maintain pressure for 15 seconds, release and repeat for 3-5 minutes.

Supplemental relief: Try a mix of valerian (great for general pain relief), passionflower and skullcap (both ease stress). The herbal trio relaxes your shoulders, neck and scalp. Ask your naturopath for recommended dosage.

Thanks!

Labels: acupressure, headaches, herbs, Holistic Health, natural health