HEAD TUINA AND ABDOMEN MOXIBUSTION
Tui Na, or tuina, is a therapeutic form of massage and has been used in China for more than 5,000 years. Defined as “the ancient healing art of fingers and strength,” tui na (pronounced “twee nah”) has been gaining international attention for its safe and effective treatment for a wide variety of conditions. Tui na massage therapy is used for giving special treatments to people of all ages, from infancy to old age.
Practitioners use their finger, hand, elbow, knee or foot to apply pressure to a specific body location, according to an article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information. This complementary and alternative Chinese medicine modality makes use of rhythmic compression techniques along different energy channels of the body to establish harmonious flow of qi throughout the body and bringing it back to balance. By applying pressure to meridians, acupoints, and groups of muscles and nerves, tui na removes blockages and works deeply with the positive energy of the body.
Technique
Tui na makes use of various hand techniques in combination with acupuncture and other manipulation techniques. To enhance the healing process, the practitioner may recommend the use of Chinese herbs. Many of the techniques used in this massage resemble that of a western massage like gliding, kneading, rubbing, vibration, tapping, friction, pulling, rolling, pressing and shaking. In tui na massage, the muscles and tendons are massaged with the help of hands, and an acupressure technique is applied to directly affect the flow of qi at different acupressure points of the body, thus facilitating the healing process. It removes the blockages and keeps the energy moving through the meridians as well as the muscles.
Reference link: https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/12/19/benefits-tui-na-massage
How does moxibustion work?
To date, there is no consensus on the exact mechanisms of moxibustion treatments. Some theorize that it works in a similar way to other heat-based therapies, like saunas, hot tubs, heat packs, and warming creams. Though most Westerners will be familiar with these treatments for localized pain, heat is a valuable ally in Chinese medicine to relieve more systemic, whole-body complaints.
Reference link: https://www.philadelphia-acupuncture.com/moxibustion-therapy/