Alignment Restored
Guided by pulse, applied by hand, anchored in the nervous system.
Tui Na: The Architecture of Touch
Tui Na is a foundational Chinese manual therapy rooted in the classical Zhou Dynasty. As a form of somatic care, these targeted methods bypass passive relaxation to drive active physiological regulation. Here, ancient technique meets deep somatic listening to release stagnation, restore the circulation of Qi, and realign your physical form.
Photo to the left: Ariane with mentor Brian O'Dea, L.Ac., during Advanced Practitioner Training at the Acupressure Institute in Berkeley, CA (2006–2009).
Tui Na Techniques & Methods
Push, Grasp, Flow: The Art of Tui Na
Tui Na translates to push and grasp, forming a specialized branch of classical somatic therapy.
Linear gliding (Tui Fa) and deep grasping (Na Fa) unwind tissue to release physical and emotional tension. Stationary vertical pressure (An Fa) engages acupuncture channels directly, balanced by the circular friction of (Mo Fa). Percussive beating awakens circulation to disperse stagnation, while continuous rolling softens dense muscle. Dynamic joint rotation restores natural mobility, opening the channels and easing systemic pain.
Gua Sha
Gua translates to scrape, while sha denotes the sand like microcirculation brought to the skin.
Traditionally used to vent pathogens, clear lung heat, and release exterior wind, this technique glides smooth tools over lubricated tissue. Often applied along the neck, upper back, and back shu points to regulate internal organs, it resolves stasis, boosts microcirculation, and delivers lasting anti inflammatory relief from pain and fatigue.
Cupping
How Cupping Works
Using soft suction, glass or silicone cups lift tissue, release fascia, and boost circulation. By promoting lymphatic drainage and easing inflammation, cupping relieves acute and chronic pain. Stationary or glided along channels, cups or traditional warm fire cupping disperse tension to deliver noninvasive relief like an inverted deep tissue massage.
Somatic Care and External Therapies
Somatic therapy integrates specialized herbal topicals, including traditional Zheng Xie Gu Shui (Evil Bone Water), to penetrate deep tissue, promote healthy blood circulation, and accelerate injury recovery. Professional grade formulations sustain these healing gains between treatments and are available at the clinic for home care.
Key Ingredients: Gui Zhi (Cinnamon Twig), E Zhu (Zedoary Rhizome), San Qi (Notoginseng), Zhang Nao (Camphor), and Bo He Lao (Menthol) in an alcohol base.
Aromatic therapy offers gentle noninvasive support for the nervous system. Inhalation of pure essential oils alongside Aura-Soma Color Therapy Pomanders and Quintessences deepens physical relief and settles the mind.
Schedule Your Visit
Current patients, please book through the online portal.
New patients, please call the clinic to schedule an initial consultation.
