What is Chinese Tui Na?

The Chinese word, Tui Na, means push (Tui) grab (Na). This ancient form of massage is one of the essential foundations of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been practiced for thousands of years by martial artists, Qi Gong practitioners, and healers around the world to maintain health and to heal common ailments, including chronic pain.

Swedish vs. Tui Na Massage

Most people are familiar with the very popular Swedish and deep-tissue massage, however, very few people in the United States have experienced the healing effects of Chinese Tui Na massage. Swedish and deep-tissue massage focus primarily on the muscles and connective tissue. Tui Na massage focuses on the meridian system throughout the body while addressing muscles and surrounding tissue.

What is the Meridian System and Why is it Important?

The meridian system is like the communication highway through which your body communicates to organs, and cells. If the communication channels are blocked or stagnant, healing cannot occur because your brain never receives the message that something is wrong. In some cases, ignorance is bliss, but when it comes to staying healthy, communication is key.
Qi (chi) is the energy that flows through the meridian system. Think of it as something similar to the electricity that flows through an electronic circuit board that runs your computer. You cannot see this flow, yet you know it is there because if it wasn’t, you would not be able to use your computer. If the circuits are damaged, the computer will not function correctly and problems arise. The same holds true for your body. By restoring the flow of Qi, the body can start the healing process and return to good health.
Energy building exercises, such as Qi Gong, and Tai Chi, along with Tui Na massage will help restore your health and keep your Qi flowing strong.
What Can You Expect From a Tui Na Massage?
During a Tui Na session, you can expect your bone structure to align itself to better support your body. Most people feel as if they are more centered over their hips upon standing from the table. Because your body is not used to this alignment, it often feels odd until you walk around for about a minute. After that, the body resets its expectations and the odd feeling subsides.

With massage, muscle tension can be worked out, however, if you do not address the root problem, the symptom, or muscle tension will soon return. Tui Na practitioners focus on healing the mind, body, and spirit, not just the body and its individual parts.
Tui Na is a way of health. It is not a band-aid, nor is it a quick fix. Most clients feel better after their second session. Pain is typically gone after the third session, and good health begins to build after the fourth and fifth session. Because everybody heals at their own pace, your practitioner will offer you a treatment plan that is specifically for you. Treatment often involves an herbal or homeopathic remedy that supports your health goals.
Tui Na massage leaves you feeling tranquil, centered, and emotionally calm. Tense muscles are relaxed, and pain relief is long lasting. When you combine this treatment with Qi Gong, herbs, or Tai Chi, you set yourself on a path of long and lasting good health and wellbeing.