BUSINESS
Technique
TECHNIQUE:
Tui Na
Rob Aspell explains why the concepts of Tui Na can help improve your bodywork practice…
T
dependant. You cannot develop high levels of
draws extensively on the constructs
Ting without the ability to Song, and vice versa.
of Chinese medicine in its diagnostic
They develop in balance.
as the virtues and qualities of mind that are fundamental to the Chinese Internal Arts. Within the practice of Tui Na, we are taught to consistently apply what are known as the ‘Five Virtues of Tui Na’ in addition to the acts of Ting and Song in order to apply correct pressure and technique, as well as diagnosis.
Song (松, release) and Ting (聽, listening). Ting and Song are two concepts within the Chinese arts that are required to engage in practice, and to connect both body and mind. Like Yin and Yang, Ting and Song are mutually
50
holistic therapist 2020
with structure, often achieved through correct posture and breathing techniques. Song is necessary within Tui Na in order to maintain
UI Na is a bodywork therapy that
and treatment principles, as well
or physical body. It is ultimately relaxation
Song is necessary within Tui Na in order to maintain prolonged practice and the correct transfer of Qi. It’s also needed to apply the act of Ting.
prolonged practice and the correct transfer of Qi. It’s also needed to apply the act of Ting. When applying Song, the body’s major muscle groups begin to disengage and allow the smaller connective tissues to take over. This helps the body to release any unnecessary tension within the tissues and mobilises the tissues and joints more effectively. Applying Song not only allows the practitioner to practice for longer periods of time without tiredness or discomfort, but is also integral for the mind to soak into the tissues and to project to the patient in order to obtain feedback.
Song (松, release)
Ting (聽, listening)
Song is a form of release that comes about
Ting (聽) is most commonly translated as
through the act of ‘letting go’ of any tension
‘listening’, but it refers to a state of awareness
through the energetic body in order to help
and mindfulness that should always be present
release tension stored within the consciousness
holistictherapistmagazine.com
