ASIAN BODYWORK THERAPY
Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) is a manual therapy that, like acupuncture, addresses the physical as well as bioelectric and bioenergetic aspects of the body. It works to restore and align the structural components so that Qi energy may flow freely to reduce pain and discomfort. Techniques utilized may include Tui'na (Chinese manual therapy), cupping, and gua sha. When appropriate, rehabilitative exercises and stretches may accompany treatment.
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Tui'Na
1 hour / $100
Tui'na is a Chinese system of ABT that is deep, rhythmic, and problem-focused. It is sometimes described as "Chinese physical therapy". Unlike massage, it is typically performed through clothing or a sheet without lubricating oils or lotions, and addresses only one or two areas of concern per session. Techniques such as rocking, kneading and hand rolling (a technique unique to Tui'na) relax the muscles and joints, while plucking, "thumb meditation", and stretching target fascial adhesions and impingements to restore the functionality and structural integrity of the area of concern. Tui'na increases blood flow and promotes therapeutic inflammation to allow for faster healing and recovery.
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Due to the nature of this targeted therapy, sessions can be intense and it is not uncommon to experience an emotional release when working on an area that has long stored trauma. When emotions are repressed they often settle into physical areas of pain.
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When preparing for ABT, it is advised to wear loose comfortable clothing, be well hydrated and lightly fed.
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Cupping + Gua Sha
Cupping and gua sha (also known as "scraping") are sometimes used during an ABT session.
Cupping utilizes gentle suction with or without a lubricating oil or lotion to lift the skin and promote circulation. Stationary cupping places the cups on the skin and leaves them for a few minutes or until the skin changes color or texture. Sliding cupping entails sliding the cups across an area of the body and is generally used on larger body areas such as the back, hips and thighs. Both techniques can (but not always) cause the skin to turn light to dark red -- more like a hickey and less like a bruise. This coloration fades over several minutes to a few days. Generally the darker the color, the more blood stagnation in the area. Acute injuries and pain typically have more blood stagnation than chronic pain conditions. ​​
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Gua sha utilizes a hand tool with a thin but dull edge. Gua sha tools are typically made from natural materials such as bone, horn, jade or quartz but modern versions are now available in stainless steel. A lubricating oil or lotion is used on the skin and the tool is superficially and repeatedly "scraped" across the skin until the skin changes color or texture. It is painless, rhythmic and generally relaxing. It is to be applied gently and superficially to avoid bruising the tissues. Like cupping, the redness on the skin varies from light to dark and will fade over minutes to a few days.
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Research has shown that when the body begins to reabsorb the blood that is brought to the surface from cupping and gua sha, an anti-inflammatory enzyme is released and circulates through the entire body.
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Consultations
30 min / $40
Life and bodies are complex, and choosing which approach is best for you can sometimes be confusing. Consultations before beginning an episode of care can help clarify which modality is is best, and are available either in-person or via telehealth conference. Consultations can also be utilized for lifestyle and wellness coaching, dietary and nutritional counseling, and herb/supplement consultations. High quality, professional grade herbs and supplements may be purchased through Starseed for in-office pickup or shipped directly.