Massage

Get Acupressure from a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT)

Acupressure Massage Therapy is an ancient art of Oriental healing that is still recognized and effective to this day. Make sure that you get it from a licensed massage therapist (LMT), though, to ensure your safety.

Today as in ancient times, acupressure is based on the principle that the body has the capacity for self-regeneration and self-healing through the unimpeded flow of Qi, believed to be the natural energy that flows through all living things. The body is said to have twelve main meridians throughout the body. Meridians are seen as the paths through which Qi flows. The twelve meridians are supposed to be connected to the body organs. When the flow of Qi in a certain meridian is blocked, the organ or organs connected to it are not able to function properly. Blockages can be caused by trauma; physical, emotional and psychological tension and even negative thoughts.

The oldest medical classic in China, called the Canon of Medicine, written between 475 and 221 BC already discusses meridians and their connection to illness. According to this ancient medical literature which is more than two thousand years old, “Overstrain and fright may cause obstruction of meridians and collaterals manifested by paralysis.”

Acupressure, like acupuncture, works on certain points in the meridians in an effort to unblock the flow of Qi. There are more than 300 of these points on the human body.

The main difference between acupuncture and acupressure is that acupuncture uses hair-thin needles inserted into meridian points. Acupressure, on the other hand, is non-invasive and only uses varying amounts of pressure on the same points. Fingers are most often used but other body parts such as palms, knuckles, elbows and feet may also be employed to apply the necessary force called for. Pressing, rubbing, pinching, squeezing and tapping motions may be applied.

During an acupressure session, the patient is fully clothed, although loose clothing is recommended. The patient lies on a table or on a mat on the floor.

When the pressure points are stimulated in acupressure, the surge of energy is supposed to unblock the Qi and the restored flow rebalances the body’s natural biological processes, allowing it to heal itself and automatically nurturing the affected organs and body parts back to health. This is said to cure most ailments, relieving pain and supporting overall wellbeing.

Although conventional modern medicine does not subscribe to the theory of Qi, numerous scientific studies have shown a positive correlation between acupressure and relief from a wide variety of illnesses and discomforts.

Part of acupressure treatment is leading the patient to an understanding of self-healing. This insight in itself can pave the way for body-mind alignment which is the prerequisite to having symptoms of a wide range of illnesses to naturally disappear. The therapist teaches the patient ways to relax and release tension, providing self-care acupressure techniques that can be incorporated into daily routines. Lifestyle changes are recommended, too, including dietary changes and daily stretching and exercises, as well as meditation.

Acupressure integrates well with other bodywork modalities including therapeutic touch, somatic work, healing imagery, energy psychology, and classic massage therapy techniques.

A licensed massage therapist will not only be able to provide acupressure massage services but will also be equipped to administer some of these other modalities such as reflexology, craniosacral massage, Deep Tissue massage, sports massage, shiatsu and even pregnancy massage. These are all therapeutic massage therapies and are used in the treatment of various medical conditions. In fact, these modalities are also often part of the treatment for victims of auto accidents. This is why a licensed massage therapist usually does insurance billing for people in auto accidents. Remember, entrust your health only to a licensed massage therapist.

About the Author

David Jacob LMT – Licensed Massage Therapist
David Jacob
5406 SE 45th Ave
Portland, OR 97206
Phone: 503-522-5550
Email: pdxmassage@live.com
Website: www.pdxmassage.net

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