Introducing Tui Na: A New Addition to IDA Acupuncture
I’m delighted to share that I’ve recently qualified with a Diploma in Tui Na (pronounced twee-nah), a traditional Chinese medical massage that has been practised for over 2,000 years. Tui Na is one of the five core branches of Chinese medicine, alongside acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and Qi Gong.
What Is Tui Na?
Tui Na means “push and grasp” in Chinese. It uses a variety of manual techniques—such as kneading, pressing, rolling, and stretching—to stimulate the flow of Qi and blood in the body’s channels. Treatments can be tailored to be either gentle or vigorous, depending on what the body needs.
While Tui Na is often associated with treating musculoskeletal pain and tension, its applications go far beyond that. It can also be helpful for chronic health issues such as fibromyalgia, digestive discomfort, menstrual irregularities, fatigue, sleep issues, and emotional tension. Like acupuncture, its aim is to restore balance and support the body’s natural healing processes.
How I’ll Be Using It
Tui Na blends naturally with acupuncture, and I’ll be incorporating it into treatments when it can offer additional support. For example, I may use Tui Na techniques:
To release muscular tension before or after acupuncture
On the abdomen to support digestion or menstrual health
To calm the nervous system in treatments for stress or emotional wellbeing
To stimulate or soothe particular acupuncture channels
This hands-on approach allows me to work in a more tactile, intuitive way, which can deepen the effectiveness of treatment—especially when movement, touch, or Qi regulation is needed.
At this stage, I won’t be offering Tui Na as a standalone therapy, but rather as part of a fully integrated session with acupuncture when clinically appropriate.
If you’re curious about how Tui Na might benefit you, I’d be happy to talk it through with you during your next appointment or during a free twenty minute phone consultation.
