EASTERN MASSAGE: Uncover the many massage techniques from various Asian regions

The term Eastern Massage simply refers to the many massage techniques from various Asian regions.  Though typically grouped together using a single term, each technique is quite different.  Examples of Eastern massage include Shiatsu from Japan, Amma and Tuina from China, Marma or Varma Adi from India, Nuad Bo Rarn from Thailand, and Lomi Lomi from Hawaii and other Pacific islands.

In general, Eastern Massage techniques use a whole body approach. On top of that, preventive care is the goal. Therefore, instead of focusing on muscles alone, it uses Meridians, Sen lines or Chakras. Much of the work during the massage utilizes stretching, compression, and ROM, or Range Of Motion. As a whole, Eastern Massage promotes flexibility along with focusing on your overall wellness and the balance of your mind and body. Now, read on to learn about the specific types of Eastern Massage.

Originally developed from ancient Taoism healing practices, Shiatsu massage is a traditional Chinese Medicine. Shiatsu Massage a famous Japanese massage technique often used for correcting bodily imbalances. To explain, it provides various amounts of pressure applied to particular points around your body.  Therefore, the purpose of Shiatsu massage is to promote healthy energy flows and to rectify any imbalances that exist.

Shiatsu is one of several massages that are based on a spiritual belief.  Many eastern cultures believe that most illnesses result from unhealthy energy flows in your body.  To explain, they believe that energy flows within your body, and any imbalance will cause an illness or some type of pain.

Amma, also known as Tuina, is a therapeutic massage. It originated in China thousands of years ago. To explain, it comes from the same philosophy that acupuncture uses. That means, your massage therapist applying this focuses on your body’s Qi, pronounced “chee.” According to the definition, Qi is your life energy force that flows throughout your body. This complementary and alternative Chinese massage makes use of rhythmic compression techniques along different energy channels of your body. This practice establishes harmony and balance back to your Qi.

An Indian traditional art of vital points, Marma or Varma Adi Massage manipulates your pressure points. It originated in present-day kanyakumari, called Tamil Nadu. This massage technique combines massage, alternative medicine, traditional yoga and martial arts. During your massage, pressure points, known as varmam, are manipulated for healing. This application is called Vaidhiya Murai and is part of Siddha medicine.

Thai Massage, known as Nuad Bo Rarn, is very meditative for the recipient. To explain, this massage technique is applied very slowly for a heightened state of consciousness. It’s a practical application of the Buddhist concept of metta, the four divine states of mind which are Loving Kindness, compassion, vicarious joy, and equanimity or composure.

Using a slow meditative rocking motion, Thai Massage uses a gentle palm and thumb press applied to “SEN Lines” or energy lines similar to meridian lines and Acupressure points used in Chinese medicine, revitalizing and energizing the body’s natural flow of energy.

Lomi Lomi Massage from Hawaii is a profound modality that is gentle or deep, depending on your situation. Lomi Lomi Massage utilizes a continuously-flowing technique with mostly forearm strokes. Also, it is for light joint mobilization and ample amounts of oil is used. It emulating the waves on the ocean. Your Lomi Lomi Massage therapist will release physical, mental, and emotional blockages within your tissues and joints. It brings about a more grounded, relaxed, flexible you.

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