When it comes to relaxing muscles, most of us think of a firm deep tissue massage or a sports massage. But did you know that the Chinese discovered the power of massage thousands of years ago? What makes Chinese massage different is that they not only loosen the muscles but also improve the flow of energy in the body. They call it "Qi," but we might just call it energy. So, the next time you wonder why you’re feeling so tired, try a Chinese massage and let that energy flow like never before!
What is a Chinese massage?
Traditional Chinese medicine claims that the body has its own natural patterns of Qi that flow through channels known as meridians. Imbalances and blockages in these channels, as well as deficiencies of Qi in vital organs, are symptoms that cause many diseases. These imbalances can be gently corrected through methods such as diet, exercise, acupuncture, and massage.
What does Qi mean in Chinese massage therapy?
Qi (or ch'i) literally translates to "breath" or "air" and is used to refer to the "life force" or "energy flow" that exists within every living being. It is a holistic philosophy that permeates many elements of Chinese culture, from martial arts to calligraphy. Even if you don't directly subscribe to Eastern philosophies, you might understand this principle as the desire to find a sense of calm and balance in your daily life.
What is the difference between Chinese and Thai massage?
Chinese massages are focused on relieving tension and stimulating energy pathways in the body. This is done by applying deep pressure and kneading muscles and joints, and it can sometimes be a bit painful!
On the other hand, Thai massages focus on stretching and extending muscles and joints. The therapist uses hands, feet, and even knees to manipulate and stretch your body. So, if you're a fan of yoga, this might be the massage for you. And if you're not a fan of yoga, maybe it's time to start!
What Chinese massage techniques are there?
There are two main types of Chinese massage.
Tui Na (pronounced "twee na") has some similarities with a deep tissue massage and uses kneading, chopping, and stretching movements to relieve painful spots and blockages in the body's muscular system.
Zhi Ya (pronounced "zee yah") uses pinching and pressure techniques on the surface of the skin, similar to acupressure, reflexology, and Qigong.
In both types of traditional Chinese massage, the practitioner's goal is to release both physical and energetic tension, restore balance, and initiate the body's natural healing process.
What can you expect from a Chinese massage?
This type of massage is performed on a massage table or mat. The therapist will first help relax your muscles and stimulate blood circulation. Chinese massage focuses on specific pressure points in the body, stimulating the self-healing ability and allowing your body to begin its own healing process.
During a Chinese massage, you can keep your clothes on, and no oil will be used. However, it is recommended to wear loose clothing. This will allow the therapist to perform the massage more effectively, and you won’t experience any discomfort from tight or restrictive clothing during the session.
Chinese massage can be compared to a deep tissue massage and has elements of acupuncture, acupressure, and cupping. However, in Chinese massage, only the hands are used. This traditional form of massage offers a wide range of benefits, both physiologically and psychologically, and stimulates the body's self-healing ability.
What are the benefits of a Chinese massage?
A Chinese massage has many benefits. Here’s a list of them for you:
- Nervousness, insomnia, fatigue: The body becomes calm and relaxed due to the balancing effect of pressure.
- Helps reduce stress: A Chinese massage helps reduce stress and depression because the brain produces endorphins during the massage. These hormones make you feel calmer and happier. The production of endorphins also helps eliminate stress hormones like cortisol from the body.
- It can give you more energy: During the massage, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the cells increases. The result is that the body heals itself, giving you more energy!
- Faster muscle recovery after workouts: It helps your muscles recover faster because it relaxes the muscles and promotes blood circulation to the muscles. This increased blood flow helps remove toxins and waste that cause swelling and pain.
- Faster recovery from injuries: Traditional Chinese massage therapy can help you recover from injuries more quickly because it increases blood flow to the injured areas. It also helps break down scar tissue and promotes the growth of healthy new cells.
- Improves circulation: This happens because pressure is applied to blood vessels, increasing blood flow. This also helps relax the muscles, making them softer.
- Breaks down scar tissue: Chinese medicine theory states that scars can break down when energy circulates in the area, and the blood thickens due to the massage. The thickened blood helps make the scar tissue softer and begins to break it down. This process also makes the skin smoother than before.
- Makes the skin younger: A Chinese massage helps stimulate blood and lymph fluid circulation. Lymph fluid helps remove waste from the cells, resulting in younger-looking skin.
All in all, it’s quite a list that we’re very excited about!
How often can you get a Chinese massage?
There isn’t really a set guideline for how often you can get a Chinese massage. It completely depends on your body. People can revitalize their body by having a massage one or two times a month, lasting 90-120 minutes.
How long does a Chinese massage last and how much does it cost?
As mentioned above, this massage lasts between 90 to 120 minutes. This depends on what your body needs and what you find most comfortable. The cost of a Chinese massage typically ranges between €40 and €60. Of course, this depends on the masseur.
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