Shiatsu and Tui Na are both ancient forms of bodywork rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that aim to balance the body's energy (Qi or Ki) to promote healing and well-being.

Lok Kwan is a Certified Ohashiatsu Instructor. He studied shiatsu with Wataru Ohashi Sensei who introduced his unique nurturing method of healing touch to the United States in the 1970s. Lok Kwan is also an AOBTA certified practitioner of tui na.

Lok-Kwan with Ohashi Sensei 2005

Benefits of Shiatsu

Shiatsu utilizes finger and palm pressure on specific points and meridians to correct internal malfunctions and maintain health. Key benefits include:

  • Pain Management: Shiatsu has been found to have a considerable effect on chronic pain regardless of the cause. It is particularly effective for myoskeletal syndromes (such as back and neck pain) and neurological diseases (like migraines and neuralgia).

  • Stress and Mental Wellness: It is widely used to promote relaxation and stress relief, which can improve a patient's overall quality of life and mood.

  • Improved Sleep: Studies have shown that Shiatsu can lesse symptom severity and improve sleep quality in individuals with chronic pain.

  • Holistic Health: Proponents believe it aids in treating diverse conditions such as digestive disorders, asthma, premenstrual syndrome, and sports injuries.

Benefits of Tui Na

Tui Na is a more dynamic therapeutic massage that involves rhythmic compression, stretching, and joint manipulation. Its primary benefits include:

  • Musculoskeletal Relief: It is highly effective for managing chronic nonspecific low back pain, showing results comparable to physical therapy in improving function and quality of life. It also provides relief for neck pain and joint stiffness.

  • Digestive and Internal Health: Tui Na has a long history of treating digestive disorders like indigestion and constipation. It is also used to manage conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoarthritis.

  • Pediatric Care: It is a gentle, safe modality specifically designed to treat childhood ailments such as colic, asthma, and ear infections, while also potentially strengthening a child's immune system.

  • Circulation and Recovery: The techniques used in Tui Na help boost blood and lymphatic circulation, which aids in detoxification and recovery from sports injuries.

  • Mental Well-being: Like Shiatsu, it induces deep relaxation and has been found to have a therapeutic effect on depression and anxiety.