Perhaps it is because of the approximately 17,000 tactile bodies on the hands, which can pick up all kinds of stimuli – be it the slightest temperature differences, vibrations or movements – that people attribute a beneficial or even healing power to hands. The German philosopher Immanuel Kant also referred to the hand as the “visible part of the brain“. Tuina is a therapeutic concept of Traditional Chinese Medicine that works exclusively with the hands and is as widespread as acupuncture.
Tuina is more than just massage
For most people, good massages bring about relaxation and a sense of well-being. Tuina (also spelled Tui Na) massage – known to many as acupressure massage – differs from Western massage by targeting the meridian system and acupuncture points. The focus is on mobilizing Qi and harmonizing Yin and Yang.
The term Qi, synonymous with Ch’i, means energy, breath or temperament or power, depending on the Far Eastern philosophy from which it is taken in German. We understand by it above all vital force – that force which is always diminished by illness, professional and family stress. The aim of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is to restore the Qi in the body to its natural, balanced state.
Tuina therapy includes elements of connective tissue massage, reflexology, periosteal massage (a special form of reflexology), acupressure, and chiropractic therapy.
Pressing, squeezing, kneading
Targeted pressing, squeezing, kneading and grasping with the hands are the basic techniques of Tuina. Here, Chinese has combined the two terms “Tui fa” (“pushing”) and “Na fa” (“grasping”) into one word. Using joint mobilizations, strokes, kneading, rotations and pressure, the energy channels (meridians, this is where the Qi flows) and acupuncture points are stimulated to stop or alleviate pain in the musculoskeletal system. About 300 different grip techniques are used.
Traditionally, Tui Na is given through the clothing. Sometimes the skin is covered by a linen cloth. Exceptions are abdominal massage for adults and Tuina for children, which are given directly on the skin. Chinese sources state that acupressure must be gentle and soft, yet deep and penetrating. The stroking movements must be applied rhythmically and consistently. The controlled application of very deep, moving pressure is the basis of a Tuina massage.
A Tuina masseur needs as much time to treat a tense shoulder as a Western masseur needs for a full body treatment. A single treatment lasts 15-30 minutes. However, long-term success is said to be achieved only after a whole cycle of up to ten sessions. A massage costs between 30 and 60 € for half an hour. The health insurance companies currently take over the cost of Tuina therapy rather only in exceptional cases, in any case, you should ask his health insurance about it.
