Eastern and Western Massage Techniques
Posted on: March 13, 2010
The varieties of massage available in massage chairs today come from a diverse mix of cultures and styles. Eastern cultures view the human body as a network of energy channels or centers. An obstruction or unevenness in the meridians or chakras can cause a variety of health problems. While Eastern massage techniques focus on the energy systems of the body, Western massage concentrates on the overall physical body.
The Eastern View
Western massage techniques available in a massage chair are based on the anatomy, pathology, and physiology of the body. The Western tradition views the body as a physical entity that can potentially break down and become physically diseased. By focusing on the specific parts of the human anatomy, Western massage styles endeavor to repair the entire body as a combination of its parts. If you venture into a Western Doctor’s office, you will likely find a lot of diagrams and charts depicting the various parts of the human body: organs, muscles, bones, and systems.
Western Massage Techniques available in most Massage Chairs
Developed by Henri Peter Ling at the University of Stockholm in the 1810s, this technique utilizes long, smooth strokes. The Swedish technique also employs deep rubbing action too.
The basic strokes of this style are: 1. Long strokes, 2. Deep kneading strokes, 3. Hard pressure, slow jabbing movements, and 4. Fast prodding movements. For people who suffer from painful or frequent muscle spasms, this style of massage can provide a significant amount of relief. By helping muscles relax, Swedish massage can help energize the entire body. This technique helps stretch connective tissue to release muscles constriction and spasm, which may have previously caused pain.
For chronic muscle spasms, knots (called “adhesions”), and pain that are not taken care of by Swedish massage, a similar technique called Deep Tissue Massage may be helpful. It uses many of the same movements and techniques as Swedish massage, but in a deeper, harder way.The Eastern Tradition
While Western techniques address the body and its specific parts, Eastern techniques address the energy flow of the body and try to restore a healthy balance to the body and mind.
In the Eastern Massage Traditions, the body’s meridians, (energy channels) are stimulated in order to achieve proper balance in the body and mind. That’s why in Traditional Chinese Medicine, the use of Acupuncture is often a part of treatment.Western Massage Styles Available in most Massage Chairs
It employs movements to help open up the body’s energy channels. Pressure is applied to the Chinese acupuncture points on the surface of the body in order to stimulate the flow of energy. The Chinese call the body’s energy “qi.” Shiatsu encourages the flow of energy by manipulating the arms and legs as well.
Acupressure techniques are closely related to Shiatsu. They are also concerned with opening up the body’s energy pathways and centers in order to promote balance throughout the body and mind. By supporting the functioning of the immune system, Acupressure helps the body heal itself.
For the advantages of both Eastern and Western techniques, try a home massage chair.
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