Oriental Therapies
Cupping
Cupping is the application of glass or silicon cups to produce a negative suction. This vacuum effect at the skin surface produces a therapeutic outcome for tissues with adhesions, tension, scarring, pain and muscular contraction.
Benefits & effects of Cupping
May draw out stagnant blood and toxins and enable the fresh flow of new oxygenated blood.
May stimulate phagocytic activity, this process aids the removal of debris and old blood
With the increase of blood circulation, pain is often reduced
The drawing and stretching of the muscular and connective tissue can remove adhesions and restore integrity to soft tissues.
Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a form of heat therapy, utilising the refined and dried herb known as Mugwort. There are many methods for application of moxibustion. Three common methods are: with a moxa stick; Chinetsukyu or cone moxa and finally Okyu or rice grain moxa.
Benefits & effects of moxibustion
Moxa improves micro circulation maximising capillary action. From this effect we may expect to see a reduction in inflammation & pain along with the revitalisation of tissues.
Moxa can be experienced as very soothing & has a fortifying effect on the immune system.
Moxa may soften hardened tense tissue and improve joint mobility
Restoration of appetite and regulation of bowel elimination, improving digestive functioning
Calming and centring for the Mind and Spirit known as the Shen in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Gua Sha
Through the use of a Gua Sha tool, often a porcelain spoon, traditionally however, tools were made of animal bone or horn. A repetitive scrapping/rubbing action applied over the skin stretches the connective tissue around tense and tight muscles. Effective application of Gua Sha will produce a reddening of the skin. Gua means “to rub or scrap" while Sha is the red dotting or discolouration appearing on the skin surface.
Sha is a by-product of stagnated Qi or blood in tissues due to injury, external factors, or internal pathogenic conditions. Removing Sha brings integrity back to tissues as qi and blood flow is restored.
Benefits & effects of Gua Sha
Beneficial for colds, flus, fevers
Relaxation of tight muscles
May help reduce muscular and joint pain