Oriental Therapies

Oriental therapy finds its genesis in the concept of the flow of ‘Chi’ or energy through the body. Working simultaneously on the body, mind and spirit, it believes that this universal energy pervades within all living beings. A body is said to have ailed when the free flow of this energy is blocked within the body for some reason. Oriental therapy uses conventional techniques to release the obstruction in the flow of chi with the help of muscle treatment, finger and palm pressure, and a range of stretch exercises. The oriental techniques first flush out the toxins, and then build up and maintain the energy flow of the body. At the same time, diet and lifestyle modifications are necessary to enjoy complete benefits of this therapy.

Oriental therapies can be broadly classified into acupuncture, acupressure, massages, Chinese herbal formulations, exercises and lifestyle alteration.

Accupuncture
Accupunture is puncturing of specific points in the body with thin, solid needles to stimulate body’s immune system to a point of self healing. It can be performed with or without moxibustion and electro stimulation. Moxibustion is the burning of specific herbs and special acupuncture points or along specific meridians. Performed with or without needles, it helps in bringing the therapeutic goodness of the herbs into the body. Electro stimulation, as the name suggests, uses micro or milli ampere power to stimulate specific points and meridians of the body. The latent electromagnetic nature of the body is aroused through electro stimulation to cure ailments, lessen pain and induce healing of tissues.

Accupressure
Accupressure is similar to acupuncture except for the fact that instead of puncturing specific points of the body, pressure is applied on them or along meridians, which sets in the healing process. Cupping and oriental massages are also a part of acupressure. Open ended glass balls applied with suction to the body comprise cupping, which improves blood circulation and, in turn, healing. Massages such as shiatsu and tui na are also popular oriental therapies.

Chinese herbal formulations
An assortment of Chinese herbs are combined in a particular proportion according to individual requirement, and are made into pills, capsules, dissolvable powders, tinctures, or boiled decoctions. Creams and other applications for the skin can also be made from these herbs.

Massage therapy
Among the abovementioned, oriental massage is one of the most popular techniques to maintain good health. Massage improves blood circulation, activates the hormonal and immune systems, flushes out toxins and releases tension from the muscles. Not to mention the effect it has on the emotional and mental well being of the recipient. Touch is the medium of communication between the recipient and the practitioner of massage, and it is up to the practitioner to determine the right amount of pressure required for a particular body through his experience and intuition. Expert in massage techniques, the practitioner establishes a bond of care through touch which marks the beginning of the healing process.

Tui Na
Choosing Tui na to relax and pamper yourself would prove to be a wrong choice because of its vigorous nature. It is a comprehensive and serious healing therapy. The first session of Tui na often leaves the body aching or sore, but subsequent sessions are increasingly less painful and more advantageous. Tui na gives you a feeling of lightness and energy so much so that it becomes easily addictive after initial sessions. The success of the Chinese Olympic teams can be attributed to Tui na bodyworks.

Shiatsu
The shiatsu massage originated in China and revolves round the hara diagnosis. Located in the abdomen, hara is considered to be the energy centre of the body, and reflects the condition of the body on a whole. Original shiatsu comprised of fewer methods which led to the borrowing of some stretches from Thai massage. Apart from pressure application, stretches and joint rotations are involved in this massage. A hyperbolic sense of touch is required on the part of the practitioner to read the body’s clues guiding the course of massage. A thoroughly relaxant massage, it is more effective in treating stress and emotional ailments than physical ones.

Thai massage
With one movement seamlessly and rhythmically merging into another, the Thai massage pressures all energy channels known as ‘Sen’ and the muscles through which they pass. Sustained pressure relaxes the muscles allowing free flow of energy and setting ground for the impending stretches. Treatment of injuries is enhanced by this massage. An advanced yoga type workout is then given to the patient, after which a feeling of being lifted in the air is common. For truly discovering the real meaning of flexibility, it is necessary that everybody try the Thai massage at least once in a lifetime.

Indonesian massage
Centered on the spine, the Indonesian massage is oil based one. A bit more brisk than a characteristic Thai massage, it typically comprises of spinal twists. It is particularly effective in treating abdominal ailments including constipation, indigestion, bloating, heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome.

By: Ashish bhattacharya http://www.articledashboard.com

Herbal Thai Massage

Originally derived from ancient Thai traditions, Herbal Thai massage is slowly becoming a popular western modality. Thai yoga massage itself dates back over 2,500 years with roots from both Indian and Chinese healing practices.

The combination of a Thai herbal compress and traditional Thai massage techniques create a treatment designed to soothe almost any aliment one might experience.

Traditional Thai massage is most commonly used to treat inflammation due to muscle and joint pain, injuries or imbalances but it is not limited to muscular system. Thai massage can help with all the systems in the body allowing whole body healing.
The herbal compress promotes further healing as the typical selection of Thai herbs offer many healing properties to the mind body and soul. Together the Thai yoga massage and the herbal compress promote healing in the following ways:

• Improves muscle injuries, imbalances and pain

• Improves blood and lymph circulation

• Improves physical and mental energy by releasing energy blockages

• Improves joint flexibility and range of motion

• Reduces acute and chronic inflammation

• Improves appetite and digestive processes and dysfunctions

• Prevents illness

• Slows aging process and degeneration of soft tissues and joints

• Boosts immune system

• Lowers blood pressure

• Encourages relaxation

• Prevents and alleviates stress and anxiety

• Calms the mind, improves concentration and positive thinking

• Speeds healing

• Improves movement and function of fascia (body's connective tissue)

• Decreases cold and flu symptoms

• Improves organ function and movement

• Calms respiratory dysfunction and pain

• Eases menstrual cramps and associated pain

• Calms and prevents migraines and headaches

• Helps with insomnia and other sleep disorders

This unique Thai tradition is welcome in North America by both therapists and clients alike. Its deep rooted history, balancing techniques and aromatic benefits offer a therapeutic treatment second to none.

Article Source:
http://EnzineArticles.com/?expert= Lana Cummings

You Thought Thai Massage Originates From Thailand?

Asian massage is very popular as a form of therapy and relaxation. The tradition Asian massage techniques have been developed and refined in India and the Far East over many centuries.

Thai Massage originates in India, Thai massage techniques is a combination of guided stretching and Meridian pressure techniques with Pranayama breathing. This form of massage was brought to Thailand by Dr Shivago K., in Buddah’s time about some 2500 years ago. Pranayama breathing technique is meant for cleansing the body and strengthening ones nervous system. Pranayama breathing is also said to help in boosting the immune system, focusing, concentration, and more efficient oxidation of the blood. Massage is done on a mat or firm mattress on the floor. The recipient is made to practice yoga-like positions during the massage. At the end of the massgae, most recipients find Thai massage very relaxing and refreshing.

Shiatsu Massage hails from the Japanese words - shi, meaning finger, and atsu, implying pressure. It is another form of Asian massage developed in the Far East, known to most as originating in Japan. It uses the pressure of thumb, palms, and fingers, and works along the energy meridians of the body with the same meridians as acupressure. The health benefits of Shiatsu massage include rebalancing of bone system, improvement in our circulatory function, enhanced balance of the nervous system and increase greater flexibility of skin and muscle.

Chinese Tui Na massage is actually a form of Chinese manipulative therapy that was developed more than 5000 years ago. This Asian massage is often used in combination with the acupuncture, Chinese herbalism and other natural health therapies. The essence of this massage lies in applying pressure to the body at certain key points - just like acupressure. It uses a series of pressing, tapping, and kneading with the therapist’s palms, fingertips, knuckles or certain implements that are said to remove minor blockages along the meridians of the body.

The result is the stimulating of qi (natural respiration of the body) and blood to promote natural healing. Tui na massage is used as an alternate treatment for both acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, as well as certain non-musculoskeletal conditions. It also has fewer side effects than many modern drug-based and chemical-based treatments since it is totally based on natural therapy.

Javanese Massage of Indonesia is another popular type of Asian massage. It uses all parts of the therapist’s hand, (knuckles, palms and fingers) to knead and massage the body muscles. The whole massage procedure is facilitated by using massage oil. Javanese massage relieves tension, alleviates back pain and helps in the healing of fractures. Though it is the most robust (and sometime even painful) type of Asian massage but very beneficial for your health.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tango_Pang

Indonesian Massage

A complete body massage is necessary to improve the blood circulation in the body. By massaging the whole body each nerve, muscle and skin is rejuvenated. Massaging activates the nervous system and a sense of calmness pervades in the mind. Massage therapy is useful for people who have stress.

There are various types of massages and Indonesian massage is very old and is in practice for thousands of years. There are many benefits of this massage. Coconut oil is used for this massage and very little pressure is applied on the body. Even flower oils are used along with coconut oil for massage. Downward strokes are applied on the muscles to remove tension. Then upward strokes are applied towards the heart and circular thumb movements are applied for better blood flow. Pressure points are also pressed to enhance the blood flow.

Indonesian massage is different from other western massages. It helps is stimulating tissues and muscles. It is very effective for people suffering from constipation, heartburn, and stiff muscles. The massage is carried on the floor with mats, wooden bench or a chair. The massage session lasts for an hour at the most and the whole body is rejuvenated and refreshed. Why wait? Have an Indonesian massage NOW!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Cris

Asia’s Traditional Hair Therapies

Indian Head Massage
Champissage or Indian head massage has been used for centuries to relieve stress, tension, eye strain and stiff necks. Traditional head massage combines physical massage with the more subtle form of chakra balancing and with its firm, yet gentle rhythm, the massage helps unknot blockages relive tension and rebalance the body with powerful effects.

Philippines
Gugo (or bark from The Entada Phaseikaudes K Meer tree) is the Philippine secret to healthy glossy hair. The gugo first soak in water and rubbed to produce a cleaning lather rich in natural saponins before being applied to the hair. Once rinse off, and application and massage with the oil from the highly prized Unang Lana or Filipino virgin coconut complete a therapy guaranteed to leave hair healthy, shinny and thoroughly revitalized

Chinese
To the Chinese, hair that is anything but lustrously shiny is indicative of imbalance in the lungs and large intestine. Food and tonics that nourish the body’s Qi, will helps strengthen the blood, regulate the body’s internal environment and improve circulation to the scalp, thereby maintaining a healthy nourish scalp and shinny hair

Indonesian Crème Bath
Inspired by the ancient Royal Palaces of Java, Indonesian women traditionally used get gel from crushed hibiscus leaves and coconuts to keep their hair healthy and strong. The heavier coconut milk is prefect for hair conditioning, washing and massaging, while its lighter milk is use for rinsing and conditioning. The crème bath is deeply massaged into the head and scalp to enhance circulation and nourish the roots, resulting in reduced hair fall and shiner more lustrous hair

Do And Don’ts Spa Treatments During Pregnancy

Do

• Tell the spa you are pregnant at the time of booking
• Request on experienced and qualified therapist with specialized pregnancy training
• Consider a massage with plain carrier oil rather than using essential oil
• Read on key acupressure points that could stimulate labour so you yourself know which should be avoided
• Ask for a gentle massage and reflexology treatments
• Make sure that reflexology is preformed by an experienced therapist
  

Don’ts

• Book saunas, steam rooms, hot baths, body scrubs or body wraps, these can significantly raise your body temperature
• Book glycolic peels as they could trigger adverse reaction due to the hypersensitivity of pregnant skin
• Try facial using machinery
• Ask fore detox and cellulite treatments
• Request a firm pressure lower back massage, unless your pregnancy is full term and your doctor is aware
• Use basil, cedarwood, rosemary, clay sage, fennel, jasmine, juniper, marjoram, myrrh, sage and thyme essential oil, which are though to stimulate contractions

Massage for Pregnant Women

In China, treatments tend to focus on traditional Chinese medicine, alternative therapists and herbs.

In Korea, Jin shin jyutsu, is a holistic healing treatment. Believed to help with range of conditions, during pregnancy it can assist with relieving muscle or joint pain, promoting sleep and relieving anxiety and stress

In India, Ayurvedic treatments during pregnancy, for stress relief, reduce back aches, and reduce chances of prolonged and painful delivery

In Thailand, massage technique focus on lower back and legs for muscle relief from the extra weight whilst post –natal therapies deal with detoxifying and rebalancing after childbirth

In Indonesia, jamu’s (herbal medicine) is very popular for treating pregnant women during the pre- and post natal periods. Indonesia is also home to numerous spa treatments for pregnant women with baths, steams and massages among the more popular

Spa Treatment For Moms-To-Be

The definitive for those enjoying uncomplicated pregnancies, is yes, many spa treatments are safe. Furthermore, they certainly can help to relieve some of the fatigue and discomfort. In fact, especially in Asia, a bit of spa-like pampering is nothing new, with pre and post natal therapies passing from generation to generation.

Before you start treatment, it is important to take several basic precautions.

Always inform any spa you visit of your pregnancy
Many will turn you away in first trimester, because the first thirteen weeks are statically tenuous for all pregnancies

Request therapist who has training and experience in dealing pregnant women
Choose spa that offers services or packages specifically designed for pregnant clients. These spas tend to invest in research and training and likely to have the requisite know-how

Familiarizes yourself with the basic do and don’ts
This will help you to choose between spas and therapist, and it should also give you confidence that the vast majority of treatment can be enjoyed without worry

There are some treatments that you should avoid:

Certain acupressure points
The area around the sacrum – the triangular bone at the back of the pelvic cavity, the abdomen and certain parts of the feet should be off limit during pregnancy massage

Glycolic peels
Which may trigger advance reactions due to the hyper-sensitivity of pregnant skin

All treatments that substantially raise body temperature
Sauna, steam, hot bath and body wraps

Hair coloring
The chemical absorbed through the scalp could potentially harm the developing foetus

Essential oils that are thought to stimulate contractions
Such as basil, cedarwood, clary sage, fennel, jasmine, juniper, marjoram, myrrh, sage and thyme