Chinese massage refers to two types of therapy—Tui na (pronounced twee-na), much like Western massage, is a push-and-pull method. Zhi ya (pronounced zee yah) uses pinching and pressing, similar to reflexology. In combination, this therapy involves twisting, turning, pinching, pulling and kneading the muscles, and can be used in conjunction with acupuncture. While Chinese massage does relax the muscles and relieve stress, it’s main goal is to heal the body.
Chinese massage is also known as Chinese remedial massage, traditional Chinese massage, Traditional Chinese Medicine massage (TCM massage), Chinese massage therapy, and Oriental massage (though this term is more dated, referring specifically to the Orient of the East, as opposed to the Occident of the West). This can be confusing, but all are essentially the same therapy with small deviations, such as including Chinese herbal medicines alongside TCM massage.
As a Chinese massage therapist, you will have the opportunity to improve people’s health in a number of ways. This includes enhancing blood circulation, improving emotional health, improving respiratory function, helping people to recover faster from injury or surgery, improving cardiovascular health, helping people to get better sleep, and enhancing people’s energy levels. Those who embark on careers that help people often find them extremely rewarding.
To become a qualified practitioner, you will need to complete a Diploma of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Remedial Massage, or a Diploma of Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies. You can find Chinese Massage course providers using the search feature below.
this qualification reflects the role of massage therapists who provide therapeutic re...
Course Provider : Australian School of Remedial Therapies
Campuses :NSW
this qualification is suitable for students who wish to work as a professional remedi...
Course Provider : Sydney Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Campuses :NSW
a traditional chinese medicine course provides understanding and the practical skills...
Course Provider : University of Technology Sydney
Campuses :NSW
Chinese massage focuses on acupressure points, which are targets around the body capable of triggering biochemical and physiological changes. As these changes are triggered, a patient’s Qi is re-balanced, which helps to heal them. A Chinese massage therapist uses techniques such as compression, friction, vibration, pinching and grasping, and joint manipulation to provide relief for their customer.
A Chinese massage therapist’s responsibilities typically include the following:
After you complete your Chinese massage course and become qualified, you are likely to work in one of the following places:
Chinese massage clinics are found throughout Australia’s towns and cities, and as a newly-qualified therapist, you may start your career at one of them. Or if you have the drive and work ethic to run your own business, you can consider starting your own clinic.
Wellness is a flourishing industry, with healthcare and wellness clinics popping up everywhere. They typically hire homeopaths, nutritionists, and massage therapists, including Chinese massage therapists. It’s worth keeping an eye on available jobs for your local wellness clinics, or just dropping in your CV.
To become a qualified therapist in Australia, there are a number of different chinese massage courses that you can complete.
Course duration: 1 year full time
Entry requirements: Year 12 or equivalent
Units of study (including elective units):
Course duration: 1 year full time
Entry requirements: Year 12 or equivalent
The following skills are important for becoming a successful Chinese massage therapist: