MLD, Shiatsu & Tuina
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a very relaxing massage technique that stimulates the body’s lymph circulatory system.
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Using a variety of gentle, repetitive movements over the skin it encourages the flow of lymphatic fluid along lymphatic vessels and through the filtration system of the lymph nodes.
The main task of the lymphatic system is to eliminate waste products, toxins and excess fluid from the body. It may slow down or become less efficient due to the effects of stress or pollution, for hereditary reasons or as a result of injury or illness.
MLD can be used as a general detox treatment, for recovery after cosmetic surgeries, or to treat a variety of conditions, including oedema (puffy ankles/legs/arms/face), chronic fatigue syndromes, problems during or after pregnancy (swollen ankles, mastitis), sinusitis, rhinitis, and recurrent upper respiratory tract infections
TUINA
Tuina (pronounced ‘twee-nah’) or Chinese massage therapy is one of the four branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
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Tui na massage can be used on its own or alongside acupuncture since the two therapies are complementary.
As a style of massage, tui na is very versatile. It can induce relaxation and relieve stress, but it is most often used clinically to treat a wide range of musculo-skeletal ailments (back pain etc) as well as ‘internal disorders’ (digestive complaints, menstrual irregularites, fertility issues, etc).
The manipulations and techniques used by the tui na practitioner vary from strong to mild, from deep pressure to the level of subtle energy, according to the condition being treated and patient’s own energy or qi.
It is advisable to wear loose comfortable clothing for tui na, as the massage itself is performed through clothing and/or or a light cloth covering the body. Part of the clothing may need to be removed, however, if the practitioner uses a therapeutic massage medium (oil or ointment), cupping (application of glass suction cups to the skin), moxibustion (warming of acu-points with a smouldering herb), or gua sha (gentle scraping of the skin with a smooth-edged tool).
SHIATSU
Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing therapy that improves the smooth flow of the body's vital energy.
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During a Shiatsu treatment the quality of energy changes, and the symptoms associated with lack of flow will begin to improve.
A session lasts approximately one hour. This usually takes place on a padded mat or futon at floor level, although it is possible to receive Shiatsu sitting on a chair if you are unable to lie down. You will stay fully clothed during the treatment.
At the initial session you will be asked about your general state of health and the symptoms you might be experiencing. Depending on your constitution and general energy levels, a variety of techniques will be used to improve the strength and flow of energy. These may include gentle holding, pressing with palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees and feeta long the energy channels, and, when appropriate, more dynamic rotations and stretches.
The Benefits
MLD helps the lymphatic system to dispose of waste materials more effectively and quickly, thereby strengthening the immune system, relieving congestion and protecting the body against disease.
Shiatsu is a therapy that treats the individual as a complete being. It works with, not just the physical body, but also an emotional and spiritual level.
Tui na uses the same methods and principles of diagnosis as acupuncture. Rather than employing needles the practitioner uses pressure of their fingers and hands.
Practitioners
JULIA OJI
KATY DE WAAL
