From the East: Different Types of Asian Massages

by Kevin Smith Author

As its name suggests, Asian massage came from the eastern part of the world. It uses techniques native to the continent that focuses on the body's energy flow or "chi." It aims to create balance within people's inner elements called "chakras," resetting the body.

Most therapeutic massages from the East are associated with China, Japan, Thailand, and India. Continue reading to learn more.

Chinese

Chinese massage has been around for over 4,000 years. It has two main branches: "tui na" and "zhi ya." The former is closest to the European style, using petrissage movements like kneading, pushing, and pulling. Meanwhile, the latter focuses more on pinching and pressing, techniques similar to acupressure and reflexology.

One popular Chinese style is named "Chi Nei Tsang," which translates to "work the internal organs." It's an ancient detoxifying massage that targets organs affected by diseases, aiding with a patient's healing and recovery. Therapists mostly apply this to the stomach area with deep and gentle movements.

Japanese

Everyone in the health and wellness field probably knows about shiatsu. It was created back in the 1900s and is now a well-established massage therapy throughout the world. Even Japan's Ministry of Health officially recognizes it as a treatment to maintain the body's overall health.

Shiatsu uses the palm and fingers to apply pressure to certain points to promote and correct energy flow throughout the body. It helps with sprains, arthritis, poor posture, and joint problems. This massage can relieve stress and treat illnesses while providing a deep and relaxing experience for the patient.

Thai

Contrary to its name, Thai massage wasn't made by a native of the country. It's believed to be created by a doctor from northern India around 2,500 years ago.

Thai massage has two known forms: wet and dry. Their only difference is that the latter is performed without oil. Both focuses mainly on stretching, bending, and may include positions that may cause various popping sounds from the body. They're a mix of the Swedish style with gentle acupressure techniques and yoga poses. Normally, one session lasts for two hours.

Indian

For thousands of years, foot massage has been second nature to Asian countries. In fact, you'll see many people in India doing this as part of their daily routine.

Indian foot massage has a lot of variations in the continent, but the idea behind it is the same as reflexology. The human feet contain zones that directly correspond to different vital organs. The pressure applied to these points clears the energy blockages, making the body parts function better and the patient feel healthier.

Many spas around the globe widely practice the styles these countries offer. If you're interested in learning the art of massaging, you can take classes and attend trainings at a massage therapy school in Baltimore, MD.