Overview

Jin Shin Do^® ("The Way of the Compassionate Spirit") is a unique synthesis of traditional Japanese acupressure techniques, classic Chinese acupressure theory, Reichian segmental theory, Taoist philosophy and Qigong exercises. Developed by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden, M.A., L.M.F.C.C., this sensible therapy outlines tension points associated with common physical problems and with distressing feelings like anxiety, depression, guilt and anger. It teaches points and exercises that help release physical and emotional tensions. Best of all, it helps one learn to transform, rather than repress, painful feelings - leading to a more joyful way of life and the realization of one's full potential.

History

The founder, Iona Teeguarden, spent years researching and learning point location and meridian theory with various acupuncture and acupressure teachers. As her research progressed, Ms. Teeguarden noticed the similarity between the concept of somato-emotional tension patterns described by Wilhelm Reich, a German psychotherapist, and the Eastern/Taoist approach to the psyche. She and her ex-husband, Ron Teeguarden, were also practicing internal (visualization and breathing) and external (physical exercise) methods of Taoist Yoga (now called "Qi Gong") taught by a Korean Taoist yoga master, Sung Jin Park. His view of the Strange Flows and internal energy centers was also very important to the foundational theory of Jin Shin Do®. Master Park suggested a trip to Japan to study with other teachers of Asian disciplines and to do original research into acupuncture/acupressure theory.

Through this research, study with various teachers, and spiritual guidance, Ms. Teeguarden compiled the original 30 points and release patterns taught in Basic Jin Shin Do®.  Her first book, The Acupressure Way of Health: Jin Shin Do®, was published by Japan Publications in 1978.

Benefits

The primary goal of Jin Shin Do® is the recipient's awareness of the movement of Qi along with the tension and chronic holding patterns, both emotional and physical, in the body structure that block it. The flow of Qi, or life force, promotes healing  in affected areas and a whole-body sense of physical ease and harmony. It has been used to relieve common conditions, including:

• Neck, shoulder and back tension/pain
• Joint problems
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Digestive difficulties
• Chest and respiratory difficulties
• Insomnia
• Menstrual/menopausal difficulties
• Pelvic tension

• Muscular and emotional stress and tension

Procedure

The Acupressurist will usually begin the session by welcoming the client into a safe and comfortable environment. The work is done with the client clothed, lying face up on a cushioned massage table. The Acupressurist will assess the condition of the client by asking about his or her objective for the session and relevant medical history, taking the energy pulses, palpating acupoints, and asking questions to further identify what areas are asking for attention. Most of the time the session will begin with work in the neck and shoulders, often the formal Jin Shin Do® Neck Release, which helps to relax the client and to open the channels of awareness and communication. The work is done with gentle, firm finger pressure on the acupoints. One hand holds a point in an area of tension or blockage, the 'local point', while the other hand holds a point which assists in its release, the 'distal point'. As the Acupressurist uses further acupoint combinations to work with energy pathways and  muscles, s/he may gently engage the client in an awareness of the shifting condition of the points and areas and may suggest breathing and/or focused attention on a particular point or area. As the client focuses on the body, sensations, messages, or images may arise which s/he may choose to explore with the help of the Acupressurist. At some point, the client  may fall into a refreshing state of near-sleep as the release process proceeds. The session usually ends with another neck and shoulder release, some points along the central channel in the midline for centering, and some form of foot massage for grounding. Clients usually feel more relaxed and perhaps even energised after a session, or profoundly aware of what they need to enhance the balance. This could be such things as rest, water, time off, or better food. There is often the relief and joy of 'coming home' to one's true nature nature and condition.

Source of information: www.bodymindeast.com |