Shiatsu This is a specific type of body work using acupressure points, meridian pathways and associated muscle groups and is based on the principles of Chinese Medicine. Shiatsu is a therapeutic treatment with specific goals and requires some diagnosis to ascertain the direction of the treatment. It is said that Shiatsu is "acupuncture without needles" and is suitable for people who are afraid of needles. Traditional Shiatsu is received fully clothed where the practitioner works on specific acupuncture meridians and points. This is usually done on a futon on the floor. Some 2-person stretches may also be incorporated, this is Makko-Ho Shiatsu and is very good for strength and flexibility. Shiatsu can also be performed on a massage table using oils, which people generally find more comfortable.
Tuina This is a specific Chinese medical massage/bodywork and is directed toward specific injuries and conditions. A TCM diagnosis is relevant, and any X-rays the client may have should be brought.
Combination therapy This treatment can incorporate different therapies together. For example, acupuncture and tuina or shiatsu work well together when treating pain related conditions.
Medical Qi Gong (Chi Kung) Therapy Qi means "life-force energy" and Gong means "skill," so Qi Gong is the skilled practice of gathering, circulating, and applying life-force energy. Qi Gong is concerned with health maintenance and longevity, disease prevention, and the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders. This is primarily a hands free healing therapy with light touch on certain acupuncture points and visualisation. A TCM diagnosis with pulse and tongue is important to ascertain the direction of the treatment. The three primary techniques of Medical Qi Gong Therapy include
David Hankey has more than 20 years experience studying and practising Shiatsu and Tuina. as well as practising Aikido, Qi Gong and Tai Chi for more than 28 years. In addition, over the years David has developed his own style of massage incorporating the best of the above systems and applying them to specific therapeutic goals, see dinglenaturaltherapy.com