From the East: Different Types of Asian Massages
by Kevin Smith AuthorAs 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.
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Created on Jan 31st 2020 05:28. Viewed 325 times.