Ma-uri Massage

What is MA-URI?

MA-URI is a spiritual empowerment and healing system that works for each and every person no matter what their cultural background is.

MA-URI and its healing systems have been designed as a modern adaptation of ancient Polynesian principles and developed to facilitate empowerment and healing of both physical and emotional realities as well as dealing with spiritual dis-ease or dysfunction.

It is a modern development of ancient Polynesian traditions, Hawaiian as well as Maori. Its primary function and purpose is to be a tool to clients for their self-improvement and self-healing.

In its present form, MA-URI® possesses values and principles that honour its Polynesian origin and spiritual Source at the same time as it is adapting these to the focus, understanding and needs of modern society. This keeps it connected with the ancient traditions as well as with modern realities.

What does MA-URI mean?

The name of MA-URI was created by Hemi Fox in 1990 and the vision and commitment supplied by both Hemi Fox and Katja Fox of the MA-URI Institute was directed towards the creation of a Polynesian based empowerment & healing system and a philosophy that could be adapted and developed for a modern reality beyond specific cultural boundaries.

MA-URI is pronounced /ma-'uri/, i.e. with the stress on the second syllable and the two mid-vowels clearly separated. ‘MA-URI’ is the word that was created to give name, life and ‘voice’ to the special development of a healing system and philosophy that has its roots in ancient Polynesian traditions. Translated into English the name MA-URI means ‘descendant or child of those who are free of inner limitations’ and ‘descendant/child of the white light’ – to give you two translations here that hold the most important basic meanings.

The name MA-URI® was copyrighted by the Institute in 1996.

What is MA-URI Huna?

HUNA means ‘knowledge that is not immediately accessible, but kept hidden’. Another translation is ‘secret knowledge’.

MA-URI HUNA acquires its energy from spiritual sources at the same time as it draws all its power from within – and as practitioners we use this combination to create transformation within our physical, emotional and mental realms – and to create harmony and a strong connectedness between body, mind, soul and spirit. One part of MA-URI HUNA is concerned with the development of physical tools such as the massage, for instance, and a wide range of healing techniques that recognise and draw on the body’s inbuilt wisdom. This wisdom is released and becomes available in the intense moments during a massage session where collaboration occurs between body, mind, emotions and spiritual energies via movement and touch. HUNA has nothing to do with religion, but a lot to do with LIFE and the ART of living.

"All Power comes from Within, all Energy comes from Above".

Source: The MA-URI Institute’s resource material on MA-URI. For further

details see the Institute’s website www.ma-uri.org.

Stone massage

Stone massage uses stones, sometimes heated, to massage the body. The hardness of the stones allows the therapist to address specific problem areas with more detailed work or deeper pressure. Basalt stones of various sizes, shapes and weights are used throughout and heated in water.

The stones are used in two ways during the massage:

• one is to impart heat onto the body by laying stones under the client with a layer of fabric between the client and stone (a sheet or towel)

• and/or on top of the client, again upon a towel.

Stone layout typically will be along both sides of the spine, or along the chakra centers on top and baseball sized stones would be placed in the hands. While these layout stones are delivering concentrated centers of heat, the therapist is simultaneously massaging the client with oiled, heated stones held in the palm of the hand with firm strokes along the muscles of the legs, arms, and torso areas.

The stones are used as tools to deliver effective tissue and muscle massage at a pressure level comfortable to the client.

The client can request light, medium or deep pressure, which is the beauty of the hot stone massage technique. It can be customized in an instant to the request of the client. The hardness of the stones makes for a deep tissue massage and is easy on the joints of the therapists hands.

The heat from the stones relaxes muscles, increase the blood flow to the area being worked on which further accelerates the healing process. This increase in circulation and the relaxation of the muscles also aids in mental relaxation. Mental relaxation is key when a Therapist is attempting to work into deeper muscles of the body.

Stones need to be kept heated in clean, sanitized water between 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit (about 50°C). Typically, gloves, tools, or mesh bags are used in removing stones from the hot water for sanitary reasons since hot water promotes the growth of bacteria. Alternatively, water temperatures kept too low may allow the proliferation of bacteria, algae, and mold, especially if the water has not been changed. Ideally the water should be changed for every round of sessions the therapist performs, the stone should be thoroughly cleaned and dried between patients. Your therapist or practitioner should have attended an intensive course over a period of a few days, with a resultant qualification. While the length of time the practitioner has spent being trained can be important, in general a recognised qualification from a reputable practical training source is preferred.

LaStone Therapy is a form of massage that uses both hot & cold stones to massage the body. Cold stones feel refreshing on your warmed skin, and have a highly beneficial effect.

“LaStone” is a trademarked style of massage and can only be performed by a certified LaStone therapist. It was created in 1993 by Mary Nelson, a massage therapist and native of Tucson, who began to get visions and verbal guidance from her Native American Spirit guide, San Jaunette.

The idea quickly caught on and was adapted to become hot stone massage, a treatment that is now found in almost every spa. LaStone involves a more spiritual or metaphysical component than simple hot stone massage. The stones themselves are called the Stone Clan People and are considered to have healing properties.

LaStone therapy:

1. begins with gentle stretches and Swedish massage to warm up the body's muscle tissue. You sit up and the therapist places two rows of warm stones on the treatment table in alignment with both sides of your spine. The therapist covers them with a soft towel to protect you from the heat, then assists as you lay back down on them.

2. then he or she places stones of varying weights on the body's key energy channels, including the seven main chakras. Pebble-sized warm stones are placed between your toes and medium-sized flat stones are placed in your palms. The therapist also uses both hot and cool stones as an extension of his or her hand while doing Swedish massage.

3. Alternating between heat and cold both stimulates and relaxes the circulatory system, which is very detoxifying for the body. In cooperation with heated stones, chilled marble stones create a dramatic movement of fluids within the body.

It's not that easy for the therapist to maintain their sensitivity of touch with a big rock in their hand! And the body can start to overheat.

Hot stone massage is a specialty massage that uses smooth, heated stones. They are often basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. It is a deeply soothing, relaxing form of massage. The heat helps tight muscles release.

Chinese massage

Chinese massage can be described as acupuncture without needles, and uses the same diagnostic tools, such as taking the pulse and looking at the tongue.

Anyone can benefit from Chinese massage as it can be used in the treatment of many illnesses. The therapy ranges from paediatric massage, to sports massage and massage for the prevention of injuries and diseases.

Not only does it treat muscular aches, pains and tension, like sports injuries, traumas and repetitive strain injuries, Chinese massage can also treat internal disharmonies. These may range from colds and flu to insomnia, menstrual problems, digestive disorders, stress and mood disorders.

Chinese massage focuses on ensuring that the qi and blood flow correctly. If qi is stagnant, then pain is dull and an ache can move around the body, but if the blood is stagnant, the pain is sharp and fixed in one position. This therapy incorporates styles such anmo, tui na, and dian xue.

Anmo (translation: push, pull) developed by Tina Sohn, is like a relaxation massage, in that it works just on the muscles that are causing stiffness and tension.The technique uses deep tissue, friction and touch along the meridians to stimulate healing. Tina Sohn has discovered some powerful energetic points. The therapy also uses detoxification, herbs, vitamins and therapeutic exercises.

Tui na is an ancient Chinese system of manual therapeutics with a wide range of techniques and indications. While traditional Chinese medical precepts form its theoretical basis, clinical experience governs its application. Tui na techniques range from those that are light and soothing to those that are strong and invigorating. Refined over the centuries, tui na facilitates healing by regulating the circulation of blood and qi (vital energy), which controls body function and enhances resistance to disease. The term tui na (pronounced t-weigh na) combines the names of two of the hand techniques, tui meaning to push and na meaning to lift and squeeze, which are used to represent the system. Practitioners of tui na claim there are more than 365 hand techniques, although they can be generally placed in the category of pressing, rubbing, waving, shaking, percussion, or manipulating. The term “tui na” first appeared in the Ming Dynasty text Pediatric Tui Na Classic in 1601.

Dian xue is like acupuncture without needles, in that pressure points that would normally be stimulated by needles are instead stimulated by massage.

There are 24 different main techniques used in Chinese massage and each technique has a specific action on the flow of qi and blood. Tonifying, sedating, invigorating and dispersing the flow of qi and blood can be done by implementing different techniques.

Chinese massage also works well with other therapies, such as acupuncture and herbal medicine. Lifestyle and diet are also taken into account during a treatment session. Exercises such as tai chi, qigong and yoga, to name just a few, can also really help to benefit and maximise a massage treatment.

It is a very safe therapy, with the practitioner consulting with the patient before any treatment is begun. This is so that they can gain an accurate diagnosis and select the appropriate technique to achieve the desired therapeutic benefit.

So if you’re after a massage therapy that can help to treat a health condition while still providing you with relaxation, then Chinese massage is just right for you. Whether you opt for just the massage treatments or choose to add in some complementary therapies, you’ll soon be feeling fuller of vigour than ever before!

Zhi Ya is a form of Chinese massage based on acupressure. It is similar to Tui Na massage except it focuses more on pinching and pressing at acupressure points.

SOUND THERAPY

SOUND THERAPY
Using the media of sound (music, tones, vibrations, etc.) as tools for healing, sound therapy enables the realignment of natural body rhythms. Therapy may include, but is not limited to, the use of Tibetan singing bowls, chimes, acutonic tuning forks, rattles, and drums.

Head massage

Head massage techniques are a combination of different strokes, pressure points and the right positioning.

All these aspects play a very important role in order to give the right head massage. Head massage has been a very popular concept all over the world for hundreds of years and is still regarded to be one of the best massage techniques.

There are numerous benefits of receiving a head massage.

1. A head massage is considered to be a very effective stress reliever.

2. The head massage helps the person relax the muscles of the head, shoulders, neck and even back.

3. A head massage is also known to relieve both chronic and acute headache.

4. A head massage is considered to rejuvenate the brain cells.

5. A head massage is very instrumental for achieving a sound sleep.

A basic head massage technique is to apply the right amount of pressure on the head by the use of fingers and thumbs. You can also use your fists and knuckles in order to apply extra pressure.

Some of the effective head massage techniques are:

1. Spread your fingers on the head stroke it gently upwards and downwards. Apply pressure on the head with the use of your fingertips. Change the direction of your fingers every few minutes so that the entire head gets the treatment.

2. After stroking the fingers upwards and downwards, switch it to clockwise and anticlockwise. Keep switching this position every five minutes.

3. Apply pressure on the sides and the back of the head with the knuckles. You will experience relaxation in no time.

4. Pull the top of the ears with your fingers and you will hear a cracking sound. This will help in expanding the ear muscles and reduce tension.

5. Apply pressure on the eyebrows with the use of your thumb and index finger. You will experience instant relief from headache.

Do-In Massage

Do-In: A Self Massage

This is an ancient Chinese technique. Practice this routine daily to stimulate the natural flow of energy within the body and promote well being.

1. Rub hands together in front of face and clap 2 times. Breathe deeply and slowly to massage your own system.

2. Gently shake joints loosely at fingers - wrists - elbows - shoulders.

3. Hold right elbow with left hand - make a loose right fist - keeping wrist loose, gently pound upper left back - shoulder - side of neck. This should feel good and very relaxing.

4. Continue gently pounding down the inside of the left arm and up the outside. Do this 3 times.

5. Pressure Points (on these points - use a gently circular motion) on the arm: 3 mile - front of forearm, below elbow. Lung point - thumb base. HO-KU - between thumb and index finger (large intestines). Palace of Wearines - middle of palm (heart).

6. Rotate thumb - fingers - gently flex wrist – gently shake hand, arm and shoulder.

7. Repeat #3 through 6 reversing side.

8. Gently tap head at spiral with fingertips – then use knuckles. Using fingertips tap: forehead, nose and chin. Gently rub: cheeks and ears. Pinch: ear perimeters and tug on earlobes. Press: boney part behind ear and around the underneath of chin and

jaw. Massage temples gently with the flat part of your fingertips. Check breathing and relax.

9. With both fists: Gently pound chest and abdomen - go down inside and up outside. Gently pound back - go as high as possible onto the rib cage. Be careful to go lightly or skip over kidneys located between the ribs and buttocks. Firmly pound buttocks - remember to keep the wrists loose.

10. With left fist - gently pound down outside of left leg and go up inside. Do 3 times.

11. Bend knee - with thumbs: press middle left calf (Bladder) - exhaling with each press. Do the length of calf 3 times. Loosen calf muscle by gently pounding. Firmly pound left sole and massage foot. Use a comfortable pressure.

12. Pressure Points on leg and foot: buubbling spring: sole of foot (kidney). 2 points: on each side of heel (sex organs). Happy Calm: between big toe and second toe (liver). Yin Crossing: 1st - Inside of leg, little finger on anklebone – 4 finger widths (kidney, spleen, liver). 2nd - 3 finger widths above 1st point (spleen, sexual organs). 3rd - Widest part of calf - inside leg (stomach, liver).

13. Repeat #10 through 12 reversing side.

14. Sit back - Gently bounce legs breathe – slowly and deeply. This can be done more than once a day.

Infant Massage

Infant Massage This type of massage has been practiced by other cultures for centuries. Much research has been done to show that touch is very beneficial when done at an early age. It stimulates growth and is nurturing to the soul. Techniques can be done to stimulate digestion and calm an upset baby.

What are the benefits of infant massage?

• Relaxes Infant Loving touch lessens tension, fussiness and irritability. Digestion is aided and this can provide relief of gas and colic. Massage is also a wonderful way to lessen stress parent and baby.

• Improves Baby's Sleep As your infant learns to relax and release stress, sounder and longer sleep is often the end result.

• Enhances Bonding Touch conveys nurturing and love, the essential ingredients for emotional and physical growth and well being.

• Aids Growth and Development Studies have shown increased weight gain, and immune function. Myelination of nerves is also increased. These things in turn are needed for brain and muscle development.

• Promotes Communication Parents become more aware of baby's nonverbal cues. One-on-one communication instills a massage of love and security.

Ayurveda Massage

Ayurveda is a wholistic system of medicine from India that uses a constitutional model. Its aim is to provide guidance regarding food and lifestyle so that healthy people can stay healthy and folks with health challenges can improve their health.

There are several aspects to Ayurveda that are quite unique:

1. Its recommendations will often be different for each person regarding which foods and which lifestyle they should follow in order to be completely healthy. This is due to it's use of a constitutional model.

2. Everything in Ayurveda is validated by observation, inquiry, direct examination and knowledge derived from the ancient texts.

3. It understands that there are energetic forces that influence nature and human beings. These forces are called the Tridoshas.

4. Because Ayurveda sees a strong connection between the mind and the body, a huge amount of information is available regarding this relationship.

Ayurveda is an intricate system of healing that originated in India thousands of years ago. We can find historical evidence of Ayurveda in the ancient books of wisdom known as the Vedas. In the Rig Veda, over 60 preparatison were mentioned that could be used to assist an individual in overcoming various ailments. The Rig Veda was written over 6,000 years ago, but really Ayurveda has been around even longer than that. What we see is that A yurveda is more than just a medical system. It is a Science of Life. We are all part and parcel of nature. Just as the animals and plants live in harmony with nature and utilize the Laws of Nature to create health and balance within their beings, we, too, adhere to these very same principles. Therefore, it is fair to say that Ayurveda is a system that helps maintain health in a person by using the inherent principles of nature to bring the individual back into equilibrium with their true self. In essence Ayurveda has been in existence since the beginning of time because we have always been governed by nature's laws.

Ayurveda is made up of two Sanskrit words: Ayu which means life and Veda which means the knowledge of. To know about life is Ayurveda. However, to fully comprehend the vast s cope of Ayurveda let us first define "Ayu" or life. According to the ancient Ayurvedic scholar Charaka, "ayu" is comprised of four essential parts. The combination of mind, body, senses and the soul.

Abhyanga Massage

ABHYANGA
Abhyanga, or oil massage, is an ayurvedic external treatment where one, two, or more therapists use massage and aromatic herbal oils to bring balance to the body.

Abhyanga is the Sanskrit word for an oil massage given to the entire body. It is most commonly performed with sesame oil. Although this daily ayurvedic routine takes only a minute or two, when it is performed habitually the results are multi-dimensional.

As you’d expect, the skin becomes more lustrous.

On a slightly deeper level, physical and psychological tensions are eased through the warmth of touch, even when it is our own.

Over time, we can begin to process our deepest patterns, because Abhyanga’s effect helps to gently ease them in to our conscious minds. With awareness, we can choose to resolve our negative karmas and resolve deep emotional issues. Gradually, the spirit is restored to its original state of freedom and lightness. Unencumbered, it flourishes and we evolve.

Overall, the Abhyanga is satisfying alone and fun as a couple. All you need to do is give in to its soothing effects and generally the rest will follow. Like many things yogic, the level of satisfaction and results derived from Abhyanga transcends language. Its value cannot be expressed fully in discussion; its benefit is purely experiential.

"Abhyanga", in other words, the ayurvedic oil massage is an integral part of the daily routine recommended by this healing system for overall health and well-being.

Here are some of the benefits traditionally associated with regular performance of this pleasant daily ritual:

* Increased circulation, especially to nerve endings

* Toning of the muscles and the whole physiology

* Calming for the nerves

* Lubrication of the joints

* Increased mental alertness

* Improved elimination of impurities from the body

* Softer, smoother skin

* Increased levels of stamina through the day

* Better, deeper sleep at night

Abhyanga provides the means for trans-dermal absorption of the healing qualities of the material used in the massage, and it helps the skin, which is the largest organ in the body, perform its diverse functions efficiently, whether it is allowing toxins to be released from the body or nourishment to be absorbed by the tissues.

The ayurvedic massage is traditionally performed in the morning, before your bath or shower, to facilitate the release of toxins that may have accumulated during the previous night.

Sources for Oil:

Sesame oil is the most common recommendation by ayurvedic texts.

Ordinary grocery store sesame oil is fine.

Organic oil packaged in glass is best. (Oil breaks down oil, so why chance absorbing even trace amounts of petroleum-based plastic?)

If you are of pitta constitution, you may opt for safflower oil instead, for its cooling properties.

Other vegetable oils such as grapeseed, jojoba, olive, almond, and sunflower are fine.

Never, ever use mineral oil! That is petroleum based.

Do not use the dark culinary “toasted’ sesame oil. It is much too pungent, and processing at high heat has diminished its beneficial properties.

If you have knowledge of the individual properties of essential oils, you can create your own blend.

If you choose sesame oil, look for cold-pressed, chemical-free organic sesame oil for the best results from your massage therapy. Sesame oil contains antioxidant properties, and is helpful in protecting the skin from free radical damage. It is considered highly nourishing for the physiology. To "cure" or purify the sesame oil, heat the oil to 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove from heat once this temperature is reached, cool and store for use as needed. Up to a quart of oil can be cured at a time. Of course, you should observe safety precautions when curing oil. All oils are highly flammable. Use low heat, and don't leave the oil on heat unattended.

Herbalized massage oils contain a blend of carefully chosen herbs known for their ability to strengthen the physiology and balance the mind. So the daily massage with an herbalized massage oil has twice the beneficial power -- the benefits from the performance of the actual massage and the added healing wisdom of the herbs

So how is the ayurvedic abhyanga done? Use comfortably warm massage oil. (Store your massage oil in a plastic flip-top and warm it by holding the container under running hot water for a few minutes) Dip your fingertips into the warm oil and apply it lightly to the entire body. Wait for 4-5 minutes to let some of the oil be absorbed by your skin. Then massage the entire body, applying even pressure with the whole hand -- palm and fingers.

Apply light pressure on sensitive areas such as the abdomen or the heart. Use more oil and spend more time where nerve endings are concentrated, such as the soles of the feet, palms of the hands and along the base of the fingernails. Circular motions over rounded areas such as your head or joints, and straight strokes on straight areas such as your arms and legs, work best.

After you're done, relax for 10-15 minutes, letting the oil and the massage do their magic. The longer the oil is on, the deeper it penetrates. During this time you can read something relaxing or uplifting, rest, or shave, cut nails, and get ready for the day. Dab excess oil off with paper towels if you like, then follow with a relaxing warm bath or shower. If your schedule doesn't allow for a daily massage, try and squeeze it in at least three or four times a week. You'll find it's worth it!

Massage is not recommended in cases like:

Massage is not recommended in cases like:

• Fever: When you have a fever, your body is trying to isolate and expel an invader of some kind. Massage increases overall circulation and could therefore work against your body's natural defenses.

• Inflammation: Massage can further irritate an area of inflammation, so you should not administer it. Inflamed conditions include anything that ends in –itis, such as phlebitis (inflammation of a vein), dermatitis (inflammation of the skin), arthritis (inflammation of the joints), and so on. In the case of localized problems, you can still massage around them, however, avoiding the inflammation itself.

• High blood pressure: High blood pressure means excessive pressure against blood vessel walls. Massage affects the blood vessels, and so people with high blood pressure or a heart condition should receive light, sedating massages, if at all.

• Infectious diseases: Massage is not a good idea for someone coming down with the flu or diphtheria, for example, and to make matters worse, you expose yourself to the virus as well.

• Hernia: Hernias are protrusions of part of an organ (such as the intestines) through a muscular wall. It's not a good idea to try to push these organs back inside. Surgery works better.

• Osteoporosis: Elderly people with a severe stoop to the shoulders often have this condition, in which bones become porous, brittle, and fragile. Massage may be too intense for this condition.

• Varicose veins: Massage directly over varicose veins can worsen the problem. However, if you apply a very light massage next to the problem, always in a direction toward the heart, it can be very beneficial.

• Broken bones: Stay away from an area of mending bones. A little light massage to the surrounding areas, though, can improve circulation and be quite helpful.

• Skin problems: You should avoid anything that looks like it shouldn't be there, such as rashes, wounds, bruises, burns, boils, and blisters, for example. Usually these problems are local, so you can still massage in other areas.

• Cancer: Cancer can spread through the lymphatic system, and because massage increases lymphatic circulation, it may potentially spread the disease as well. Simple, caring touch is fine, but massage strokes that stimulate circulation are not. Always check with a doctor first.

• Other conditions and diseases: Diabetes, asthma, and other serious conditions each has its own precautions, and you should seek a doctor's opinion before administering massage.

• HIV infection: Some people still think of AIDS as something that can be "caught" through simple skin-to-skin contact, but most of us know that's not the case. If there is no exchange of bodily fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or mother's milk), HIV can't be transmitted during massage. So, HIV infection is not contraindicated for this reason. However, some of the infections that people suffering from the later stages of AIDS experience are contraindicated, and you should avoid those infections. Loving, soothing contact is extremely important for people at any stage of infection, but in the case of any visible rashes, sores, lesions, or swelling, massage is best left to a professional. If you have any cuts or scrapes or scratches on your hands, it's an especially good idea to wear thin surgical gloves while massaging an HIV-infected person with any signs of open lesions.

massage, Types of massages, massage therapy,

Types of massages

There are well over 150 different types of massage therapy. Various styles of massage have developed from a number of sources.

Swedish Massage This style utilizes long, flowing strokes, often but not necessarily in the direction of the heart. Swedish massage is designed to increase circulation and blood flow. There are six basic strokes: effleurage, pettrisage, friction, tapotement, compression and vibration. Oil, cream, or lotion is applied on the skin to reduce friction and allow smooth strokes.

Deep Tissue Massage Deep tissue techniques are generally designed for more focused massage work. Working a specific joint, muscle or muscle group, the practitioner can access deeper layers of the soft tissue. Each person experiences pressure differently. Starting superficially and easing into the depth of the muscle slowly often allows more movement. If the pressure is applied too deeply or too quickly, the muscle may tighten to protect that area.

Trigger Point Therapy A trigger point is an area of a muscle that refers pain sensations to other parts of the body. Trigger Point Therapy applies pressure to these points leading to immediate release of tension and improved muscular functioning. This work is based upon the trigger point research and manuals of Dr. Janet Travell.

Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) is used for pain relief and specific problems. Structural and postural imbalances are identified through an initial postural assessment. These are then addressed through systematic and site specific massage. NMT reduces pain, tension, postural imbalance, and lengthens and strengthens tissues.

Structural Muscular Balancing A gentle and effective technique that releases chronic contraction in the muscles. The nervous system is triggered to release contractions through compression applied to muscles placed in a shortened position.

Breema bodywork is performed on the floor with the recipient fully clothed. It consist of rhythmical and gentle leans and stretches which leads to deep relaxation, increased vitality, and stimulation of the self-healing processes of the body.

Ancient Thai Massage Also known as passive/assisted yoga or Thai bodywork, it is usually soothing because of its emphasis on stretching and loosening the body. It is also known as Ancient massage because its roots go back far into history, originating in India and then becoming popular in Thailand.

MA-URI is a new form of massage introduced by Hemi Hoani Fox in 1990, who cites as its roots Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi Nui dance, claiming increased so-called energy flow within the body and mind. Focus is internal, upon breathing, intent, and concentration.

Zhi Ya is a form of Chinese massage based on acupressure. It is similar to Tui Na massage except it focuses more on pinching and pressing at acupressure points.

Tui Na is a form of Chinese massage that is similar to Zhi Ya, but focusing more on pushing, pulling and kneading the muscle.

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage based on acupressure. It is uncertain whether it originated from Chinese Zhi Ya.

Scalp massage In some barber shops in Hong Kong, scalp massage often lasts 30 minutes to 45 minutes during shampooing of the hair.

Sole or Foot Massage Also known as reflexology, foot massage, as practiced by the Chinese is performed in the context of chi, in that each spot on the sole of the foot corresponds to an internal organ, and the applied therapy is healing to one's overall well being. The theory supposes that an ailment of an internal organ will be associated with the nerve ending on the sole of the foot.