About Tui Na

Tui Na (pronounced 'twee nar') is ancient form of Chinese Massage. Although little known in the West, in China it ranks equally alongside the other branches of Chinese Medicine such as Acupuncture and Herbalism. It is some 3000 years old, and many modern massage styles such as Swedish massage and Shiatsu are derived from it.

Tui Na is a versatile form of massage, containing both strong, vigorous and penetrating techniques and also those that are gentle and relaxing. It also makes great use of acupressure – this makes it suitable for a wide range of complaints.

The theory of Tui Na is the same as that of Acupuncture, so it has the same detailed diagnostic methods and complex understanding of the body and mind. This is what marks it as separate from most other massage. In Tui Na, the therapy is inseperable from the theory.

This makes Tui Na suitable for far more than just muscular problems, in fact it can be successfully used for the same kinds of conditions as acupuncture, including respiratory, circulatory, digestive, psychoemotional and hormonal problems to name a few. It is also of great benefit in maintaining health and dealing with stress.

What To Expect

To begin with you will be given a full Chinese Diagnosis before treatment, just as you would if you were receiving acupuncture. The treatment itself will be tailored to your individual circumstances, and is often performed over clothing. Sometimes you may be asked to remove some of your clothing if oil is to be used. Naturally, every step is taken to ensure your modesty and comfort.

Even when strong techniques are used the practitioner uses cues from your body to determine the correct strength of the techniques – nothing should be unduly painful. In some cases only very light and gentle techniques will be used, but these can be just as effective.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Women should wear trousers or shorts rather than skirts, if possible.

neil kingham tui na (tuina / anmo) bristol chepstow portishead usk crickhowell