Chi Nei Tsang

Chi Nei Tsang is a powerful abdominal massage technique based on the principles of Taoism. Some of the benefits include improved digestion, detoxification of the organs, detoxification of the vascular and lymphatic systems, relaxation and stress reduction (What Are Benefits of Abdominal Massage?, Amazing Benefits of Abdominal Massage, Benefits of Stomach Massage for Constipation, Gas and Weight Loss).

Here is just a short list of conditions on which Chi Nei Tsang has been known to have a positive effect:

asthma
allergies
indigestion
constipation
headaches
emotional imbalances
endometriosis
fertility
musculoskeletal pains
stress

The key to the effectiveness of Chi Nei Tsang lies in its focus on the body's centre, the abdomen, where we have a tendency to accumulate tension due to stress and worries; and as these tensions continue to grow they affect our organs, digestive tract, fasciae, nerves, and lymphatic and vascular systems, sometimes manifesting in painful ways. It is also common for these internal tensions and pulls to create a distortion in the shape of the navel, which can often give a clue as to where tension may be coming from. In fact, over the course of a number of sessions, it is not unusual for the navel to physically change shape as the internal tensions and pulls gradually melt away.

A healthy navel should be circular and open as above; however internal tensions can cause the navel to exhibit pulls in a range of directions, giving clues to underlying health issues

According to traditional Chinese medicine, illnesses become manifest when the body's meridians/energy channels become blocked or disrupted. Thus when we become stressed or suffer emotional trauma, the resultant tension within our bellies contributes to a cycle of energy blockages, knots, tangles and discomfort which can impact our daily lives. In fact, even aches and pains within the musculoskeletal system are thought in many cases to originate from chronic tension and imbalances within the internal organs as they can result in subtle, but adverse effects on posture.

Tensions within the abdomen do not just result in discomfort and digestive issues but also affect the whole body

The aim of Chi Nei Tsang therefore is to restore balance to our bodies and relieve these tensions. This is achieved through a number of techniques: manipulation of the organs, vascular flushing, detoxification of the lymphatic system and the re-centring of the navel. Thus working on the organs both physically and energetically can bring about relief of physical symptoms, such as those listed above, along with emotional stresses, as stagnant energies are recycled and balanced according to the theory of the Five Elements.

The Five Element Cycle is a key foundation of the Chinese medicine system and is used to describe the interrelationship between all things

The idea behind the above approach is that our body's centre is of great significance both physically and energetically. This is illustrated by the importance of the navel in many ancient philosophies such as Taoism, Buddhism, the various yogic traditions and even Western traditions such as the Omphaloskeptic philosophy in Ancient Greece and some branches of Eastern Christianity.

According to some of these traditions, the navel is the point at which energy flows into and out of the body as well as the point where the body's energies are recycled. This energy centre (whether considered to be at, just above or just below the navel) is known in varying traditions as the hara, tantien, or manipura chakra and is often the focal point for various kinds of meditation. In fact, modern science also recognises that our nerve and blood vessel-rich 'gut brain' is a fascinating part of our anatomy, having an impact on both physical and mental health, as well as immunity: Gut-Brain Link Grabs Neuroscientists; The Brain-Gut Connection; Gut Bugs 'Help Prevent Allergies'; Gut Bacteria Protect Against Food Allergies; The Gut: Where Bacteria and Immune System Meet; Good Bacteria May Ease Hayfever; Pollen Is Not The Problem.

Unsurprisingly, bringing balance and free flow of blood, lymph, movement and energy to this centre is integral to Chi Nei Tsang as, during treatments, the abdomen will be released of tensions and blockages whilst imbalanced energies from around the organs will be brought to the navel centre for recycling.

Chi Nei Tsang is therefore a deep and powerful technique which many have found to be of benefit for both specific issues and general digestive health.

Treatment

Initial consultation and treatment lasts for around one hour and a half.

Treatment lasts for one hour and balances consultation, massage and meditation according to client needs.

Sessions cost £80*

*Pricing may depend on distance travelled.

Concessions available for block bookings and on an individual basis.

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