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Acupressure
Acupressure therapy originated in ancient China over 5000 thousand years ago. It is an important aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is often used in conjunction with acupuncture and herbal treatment. In Chinese, acupressure therapy is called tui-na, literally "press and rub". The name refers to the technique; the palms or tip of the thumbs are pressed deeply into a muscle, nerve or vital point of the body, then rubbed a few times and released. Tui-na combines a variety of different massage techniques such as vibrating, shaking, tapping, squeezing� These fluid and rhythmic massage movements are often combined with rolling and brushing techniques along the acupuncture meridians to stimulate and direct the flow of vital energy (chi). Acupressure can be performed dry, through light clothing or with essential oils and is useful in treating a wide variety of conditions. Qi gong Qi gong pronounced Chi kung is the Taoist art and science of working with the body's energy field. It has been an integral part of Chinese culture since the beginning of its civilization. Chi means 'energy' as well as 'breath' and 'air' indicating the vital role breathing plays during practice. Kung means 'work', 'skill', 'achievement', and 'perseverance' and refers to any skill that requires a lot of time and effort to achieve. Chi kung training balances the internal stillness of meditation with external activity. It consists of holding certain postures in place and performing slow fluid movements while carefully tuning the breath and mind in order to circulate your "vital energy" (chi) and fortify your internal organs. Chi kung has four basic applications: Health, Longevity, Martial Art Powers and Spiritual Enlightenment. In this school Medical and Taoist Chi kung is taught simply to promote good health. This allows the therapists to preserve their vitality so they may better help others. |