Chinese Bodyworks

Chinese Massage (Tuina)

Chinese massage (also called Tui-Na or Tuina massage) works along meridians (energy channels) throughout the body, the Tui Na practitioner taps into these energy points, using stretches, pressure points, and joint rotations, to balance the body’s energy (Qi) flow. Sometimes, it is called acupressure, a form of needle-free technique for acupuncture points stimulation.

Unlike Western massage techniques, Chinese massage goes beyond the muscles, bones and joints. It also works with the body on a deeper, energetic level. Massage therapists intend to sense the energy of the client with their hands and affect the flow and distribution of that energy during the session. Tui Na massage is often used as a stand-alone therapy and also in conjunction with acupuncture, Chinese herbal remedies, moxibustion, and cupping.

Cupping Therapy

Cupping is an adjunctive technique used in acupuncture treatments. It has been used as a folk medicine method in many traditional cultures for thousands of years. The most common ways in Chinese medical practice are Fire Cupping and Suction Cupping.

Cupping therapy can be used to treat many types of aches and ailments. Few well-known applications are for treating muscle pain, joint pain, and skin problems such as acne and eczema. A traditional explanation of how it works is by sucking the bad/stagnant blood from the muscle to the skin surface that encourages fresh blood supply to the muscle or soft tissue and speeds up the healing process. Read More...

If you’re near the inner Canberra area, come in and try our cupping therapy today.

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a massage technique used in Chinese medicine to relieve pain and muscle tension. It is applied using massage oil and a smooth-edged stone or jade. Gua Sha improves local circulation and breaks up scar tissue or adhesions in the muscles and connective tissue. This technique can be performed anywhere on the body, but is commonly done on the back, neck, and shoulders. It is also a great adjunctive technique for treating a common cold or respiratory condition. Like cupping, Gua Sha can produce temporary markings on the skin called petechiae, which naturally dissipate in a few days and are associated with improved blood flow to the area. Read More...

Moxibustion (Moxa)

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese therapy that uses a dried plant Moxa to warm and stimulates acupuncture points. This therapy has been in use for thousands of years and is commonly used as an adjunctive technique during acupuncture sessions. It improves the circulation of qi and blood and conditions associated with “cold” or “yang deficiency” in Chinese medicine such as pain, fatigue, some types of infertility, and digestive disorders.

Moxibustion is also well known for its ability to turn a breech baby according to various studies. Moxibustion can be performed by your acupuncturist at Chenzen Wellness Centre.