Manual Therapies
Manual therapies have been integral to Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years, representing a hands-on approach to healing that complements acupuncture and herbal medicine. These time-honored techniques work by stimulating circulation, releasing tension, and promoting the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout your body.
At the Moshen Center, each session comes with one complimentary manual therapy, with the option to add more therapies at an additional cost.
At the moment, the only manual therapies that are offered as standalone treatments are cupping and Gua Sha.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping is an ancient practice that utilizes suction to promote healing and has been employed in various forms across numerous cultures for over 3,000 years. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, cupping is believed to move stagnant blood and Qi, reduce inflammation, and boost circulation to promote healing. During cupping treatment, special cups (traditionally made of glass, bamboo, or ceramic) are placed on your skin, and suction is created either through heat or mechanical pumps. The gentle suction draws your skin and superficial muscle tissue into the cup, increasing blood flow to the area and helping to release deeply held tension. The cups may be left in place for several minutes or moved along your skin in a gliding motion. While cupping may leave temporary circular marks that fade within a few days, the treatment itself is generally comfortable and deeply therapeutic.
Gua Sha
Gua Sha (pronounced "gwah-shah") is a traditional healing technique that involves gently scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool to improve circulation and release muscle tension. This practice, which literally means "to scrape away fever," has been used for centuries to treat pain, inflammation, and various health conditions. During Gua Sha treatment, our practitioners apply oil to your skin and then use a smooth tool (traditionally made of jade, horn, or stainless steel) to gently scrape along your muscles and meridian pathways. This technique helps break up stagnation in the tissues, promotes blood flow, and releases toxins. Like cupping, Gua Sha may temporarily leave marks on the skin that fade quickly as circulation improves.​
Massage & Tui Na
(pronounced "twee-nah") is a sophisticated form of Chinese therapeutic massage that dates back over 2,000 years. Unlike relaxation massage, Tui Na is a medical treatment that uses specific hand techniques, pressure points, and movements to address particular health concerns. Our practitioners use rolling, pressing, kneading, and stretching techniques along your body's meridian channels to release blockages, improve circulation, and restore balance.During a Tui Na session, you remain clothed while the practitioner applies rhythmic pressure and manipulation techniques to specific areas of concern. The treatment may focus on acupuncture points, muscle groups, or entire meridian pathways, depending on your individual needs. Many people find Tui Na both deeply relaxing and energizing, often experiencing immediate relief from pain and tension.
Additional Specialized Manual Techniques​
Our practitioners may also incorporate other traditional manual therapies such as:
Moxibustion – A warming technique using dried mugwort (moxa) near acupuncture points to boost circulation, strengthen Yang energy, and support immunity. It’s especially helpful for fatigue, digestive issues, and “cold” patterns in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Acupressure – Gentle finger pressure on acupuncture points, ideal for children, sensitive patients, or as a needle-free complement. It can provide quick relief for headaches, nausea, anxiety, and pain.
Qi Gong Massage – A meditative bodywork method combining gentle movements, breathwork, and energy balancing to release blockages and promote deep relaxation.
Trigger Point Therapy – Focused pressure on muscle knots to release chronic tension and provide relief from musculoskeletal pain.
Ear Acupuncture (Auriculotherapy) – Stimulating specific ear points that correspond to the whole body. Often used for stress, emotional balance, addiction support, and weight management.
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Why Manual Therapies Are Essential
These hands-on techniques work alongside acupuncture and herbal medicine to support full-body healing. They help release tension, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and enhance your body’s natural ability to recover. Many patients experience faster, deeper, and longer-lasting results when manual therapies are combined with acupuncture
