Exploring Holistic Therapies
Alternative or complementary medicine can be defined as any healing practice that does not come under the scope of conventional medicine. As the surge of interest in the West continues to grow and holistic modalities are being accepted and integrated into conventional healthcare, I thought it might be nice to introduce a few of them to you from time to time. So here are the first three:
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a bodywork therapy similar to Chinese acupuncture but with its origins in Japan. It is rooted in TCM and focuses on the body’s meridians to balance energy. Pressure is applied on points using thumbs, fingers, palms, elbows or feet. Massage techniques, such as rolling, kneading and stretching may also be used. Shiatsu is done on a futon or low massage table and the client wears loose comfortable clothing. Shiatsu is a relatively new form of therapy, first establishing itself in Japan in the early twentieth century. Nowadays there are several forms of Shiatsu but they all follow the same principles of manipulating ki (energy) to relax the body so that it can heal itself. If you are afraid of acupuncture needles, a Shiatsu treatment may be a good alternative.
Thai Yoga Massage
Also called Nuad Boran, Traditional Thai Massage originates from the temples of Thailand and grew centuries ago from the roots of yoga and Ayurveda. The client is put through a series of yoga postures, while at the same time the practitioner uses his/her thumbs and palms along pressure points and lines to circulate energy. In this way muscular tension is released and the body’s energy is rebalanced. The yoga postures used are based on ayurvedic principles to harmonize the three doshas, vata (slow and gentle postures), pita (non vigorous and relaxing postures) and kapha (energetic and uplifting postures). This therapy is carried out on a mat on the floor and both client and practitioner are comfortably clothed. In contrast to a typical western massage, no oils or creams are used. ***On a side note, Michelle Shaw, our resident massage therapist specializes in Thai Massage.***
Jin Shin Jyutsu
Jin Shin Jyutsu is an ancient bodywork system that was rediscovered in Japan in the early 1900s. Master Jiro Murai healed himself of a life-threatening illness and went on to research and develop Jin Shin Jyutsu. It brings balance to the body’s energy through a system of 26 ”safety locks” along pathways, like Chinese meridians. No massage or pressure is used to release tension or energy stagnation. Instead the fingertips are placed over clothing on the safety locks to harmonize and restore energy flow. Usually the client lies on his/her back while the practitioner places his/her hands on the points for a minute or so. Jin Shin Jyutsu differs from other bodywork therapies in that it is considered to be an art form modality and there is no physical manipulation of the body. It is very gentle and non invasive, which makes it suitable for children with special needs and very sensitive adults. Jin Shin Jyutsu is relaxing, creates emotional balance and boosts the immune system. It can be applied as self-help or by a practitioner.