The Practice of Tui Na
Principles, Diagnostics and Working with the Sinew Channels
Tui Na is one of the 'Four Pillars' of Chinese medicine (alongside Acupuncture, herbal medicine and Qi Gong) and is a form of bodywork that includes acupressure, massage techniques, assisted stretching, and joint mobilisations or adjustments that are all based on the key medical principles and diagnostics of the Classics of Chinese medicine. This book is an accessible clinical handbook of Tui Na principles and practice.
Tui Na can be used as much more than a musculoskeletal therapy, but in order to use it to its full potential as a medical intervention, it is essential to understand its uses on the Sinew channel system as opposed to the other channel systems commonly used within acupuncture. Tui Na requires an understanding of the principles and pathways of the Sinew channels as a standalone system of the body, as well as its relationship to the other channel and organ systems, and this book provides an accessible introduction to these channels before moving onto Tui Na practice. There are Sections on Diagnosis and Assessment, Techniques and Treatments with hand and joint manipulation techniques covered in detail, along with instruction on developing a Tui Na prescription and protocols for the treatment of common conditions.
This book can be used by beginners studying on a hands-on practical course in Tui Na, in addition to qualified Chinese medicine and Tui Na practitioners.
A well-executed and pragmatic therapeutic approach in the art of Tui Na. The Practice of Tui Na has placed great emphasis on the sinew channels (Jing Jin) which has been largely underestimated by many Tui Na therapists. This book broadens the clinical application of Tui Na especially for the treatment of mental and emotional disorders, as well as other diseases with clear treatment guidelines. A truly exceptional read.
Rob Aspell clearly has a deep understanding of this subject area and a great writing style, as this has been one of the easiest books for me to pick up and work through. Having studied Tui Na over a number of years, I found this book most invaluable as it helped pull together my understanding of the principles and diagnostics into something that is usable and effective. The Practice of Tui Na is an incredibly detailed book on the subject of Tui Na, and it seems that both complete beginner and experienced practitioner of the practice would greatly benefit from reading it.
This work's unique perspective will be a valuable addition for anyone seeking to deepen their knowledge of Asian bodywork practices. The sections on 'listening (Ting)' and 'letting go (Song)' should be required reading for all students of Tui Na and Acupuncture
