Tui Na (pronounced twee-nah) massage is an ancient form of Chinese medicine, similar to Shiatsu, that treats the mind and body as a uniform whole. While more commonly practised in the Far East, we’re lucky enough to call Emilyn, 3D Hair & Beauty’s resident Tui Na and acupuncture expert, one of our own!
What can Tui Na massage treat?
Emilyn’s treatment can be used to address a wide variety of symptoms and disorders. Historically, Tui Na massage has been used to tackle joint pain, migraines and headaches, IBS, sciatica, and premenstrual syndrome, amongst others.
In China, Tui Na practitioners treat conditions that could, in the West, be compared to the work of osteopaths, chiropractors or physiotherapists. Benefits from Tui Na may be felt on both a physiological and psychological level, with the techniques promoting an increase in well-being and an overall feeling of euphoria. It can be used for a variety of purposes, from general massage, to a more targeted approach for specific problems, such as:
- Neck pain, shoulder pain
- Back pain, sciatica
- Low energy, poor circulation
- Digestive disorders, stress, and anxiety
- Rheumatism, arthritis, and Parkinson’s
- Moving pain
- Sport injuries
As a holistic approach to wellness, Tui Na can be used alongside other therapy treatments – it’s common for our customers to make back-to-back bookings with Emilyn, a sure sign that she’s making a real difference to her clients. On top of that, Tui Na is also a wonderful stress reliever and a staple service for dozens of regular customers. Some consider a regular massage at 3D Hair & Beauty a cornerstone of their monthly routine, and with the smiles that follow Emilyn’s expert attention we can understand why!
What can I expect?
If this is your first Tui Na massage, or even your first ever massage, you might be wondering what to expect when coming to see us. Firstly, a bit about the name, Tui and Na together can be translated as ‘pinch and pull’ – alluding to the key role the practitioners’ fingers play in the treatment, although they may also utilise other areas such as palms and elbows for maximum effectiveness. Using a combination of kneading, gentle pinching, rolling, pressing, and tapping of the muscles and tendons, alongside various stretches and rotations, Tui Na works particularly well for those with specific problem areas, in much the same way as acupuncture. Patients remain clothed for this massage, so that’s one less thing to worry about!
Other Treatments
Tui Na can incorporate a wide variety of other disciplines, many of which are available as individual treatments. Emilyn offers expert orthopaedic acupuncture, balance acupuncture and her own invigorating style of beauty therapy.
For those new to the world of acupuncture, or simply know it has something to do with needles, welcome to your new favourite treatment. With devotees around the world, and a history stretching back to around 6,000 BCE, acupuncture today is a great example of the intertwining of Eastern and Western knowledge. By inserting thin needles into specific areas of the body, sensory nerves within the skin and muscles are activated which can cause a release of endorphins – the body’s natural painkiller. It is also believed by many acupuncturists, and those who utilise their skills, that the needles may act upon meridians within the body which channel the person’s life force or ‘qi’ – which can become blocked or congested causing pain, discomfort, and illness.
Acupuncture can be especially useful for those living with long-term (chronic) pain and persistent problems such as tension headaches and migraines.
So, if you’re looking for something fresh, different, and exciting, why not pop into our hair and beauty salon in the heart of York and make a booking? Our friendly team of experts will be happy to welcome you!