Tui Na is the oldest known system of massage, originating in China around 2300 B.C., and considered one of the five major therapies of the time. Tui Na has remained an organized and systematically developed system of massage since that time, and is currently taught as a separate, but equal field of study in the major traditional Chinese medical colleges. Tui Na doctors receive the same demanding training as acupuncturists and herbalists and enjoy the same level of professional respect.
The art of Tui Na uses the Traditional Chinese Medical theory of channels and collaterals (meridians or pathways) and the flow of the Qi energy as its basic therapeutic orientation. Through the application of massage and manipulation techniques, Tui Na seeks to establish a more harmonious Qi energy through the system of channels and collaterals, allowing the body to naturally heal itself. Tui Na methods include the use of hand and arm techniques to massage the soft tissue (muscles and tendons) of the body, stimulation of acupressure points to directly affect the flow of Qi energy, and manipulation techniques to realign the musculo-skeletal and ligamentous relationships (bone setting). External herbal poultices, compresses, liniments and salves are also used to enhance the other therapeutic methods.
Tui Na's simplicity and focus upon specific problems, rather than a more generalized treatment, makes it both an excellent alternative and/or extension of Swedish-style massage. By utilizing treatments of shorter duration, it can be used in a variety of settings, including home, office, clinic or hospital. It is well suited for both the professional massage therapist or the active, health conscious individual. Tui Na massage has proven over the centuries that it is an effective therapeutic tool while its theory and accomplishments are well documented.
* Please note that this video was filmed in the VHS Tape format originally, and then converted to DVD. While the footage is excellent, there are qualities of VHS Tape filming that are present, particularly if there is any fast movement. This DVD is 100% viewable.
