Читать книгу Self Massage: The complete 15-minute-a-day massage programme - Jacqueline Young - Страница 7
ОглавлениеThis simple self-massage system is based on a combination of Japanese and Chinese massage therapies, together with acupressure techniques. The system works not only on releasing muscular tension, but also on stimulating the energetic system of the body, known in acupuncture as the meridian system.
The meridians
According to oriental medical theory, a network of channels covers the entire body and links with each of the internal organs. These channels, or meridians, are located just below the surface of the skin. They are not visible to the naked eye but can be measured electrically. They are said to conduct a current through the body which is termed ‘Qi’ in Chinese and ‘Ki’ in Japanese, and is generally translated as ‘vital energy’. The balanced supply of this vital energy throughout the body is said to be essential for health. There are twelve main meridians; they function in pairs and run on both sides of the body. There are also eight extraordinary meridians, two of which are important in the self-massage system.
The twelve main meridians
Lung – Large Intestine
Stomach – Spleen
Heart – Small Intestine
Urinary Bladder – Kidney
Pericardium – Triple Heater
Gall Bladder – Liver
Two extraordinary meridians
Conception Vessel – Governor Vessel
Most of the meridians correspond to actual physical organs, but others relate to specific functions of the body. The Triple Heater meridian relates to circulation and the distribution of fluids around the body, as well as to the health of the sexual organs. The pericardium is a membrane around the heart and the Pericardium meridian relates to heart and circulatory function in the body. The Conception and Governor Vessel meridians serve to supply and unite the energy within the other twelve meridians.
Acupoints
Along each meridian line there are points known as acupoints. These can be stimulated in order to influence the flow of vital energy in the meridian. In this massage system, fingertip pressure on the acupoints is used to clear blockages and maintain a balanced flow of energy throughout the body. Acupoints on each of the twelve main meridians are massaged on both sides of the body.
Because each of the meridians are said to connect with the internal organs, massage of acupoints can affect seemingly unrelated parts of the body. For example, massaging the acupoint, Stomach 36 on the leg can affect the workings of the stomach.
The acupoints are named according to the meridian on which they lie, and are numbered according to where they are on that meridian line. The names and numbers enable you to cross-reference the acupoints with any other acupressure or acupuncture texts.
Techniques
The self-massage techniques have been chosen for their simplicity and effectiveness. Their combination is based on many years of clinical practice and sessions with students in both East and West. The massage techniques help to release tension and promote a sense of well-being, while the acupressure works directly on the meridian system and helps to balance the internal organs.
Self-massage
The self-massage system is very adaptable. It provides the basis for a unique daily health routine that can be completed in a short time. The movements can also easily be modified to suit individual preferences or needs. By being sensitive to exactly what your body needs, at any given time, you can get the best out of this system and learn to give of your best, too.
