Jin Shin DoWhat is Jin Shin Do?"The Way of the Compassionate Spirit" is the guiding energy behind this complete system of acupressure. Developed by psychotherapist Iona Marsha Teeguarden, Jin Shin Do (JSD) is a unique synthesis of ancient and modern techniques which balance the "natural" flow of energy in the body/mind. Jin Shin Do also helps bring us into harmony with the laws of nature: "The Way" (Tao) of the cosmos. Jin Shin Do is a gentle yet powerful art that deepens the awareness of both recipient and practitioner. It reawakens the incredible healing powers of the body/mind/spirit through the synthesis of many wisdoms:
Jin Shin Do relates chronic tension or "armoring" to blockages along the energy pathways or meridians. A firm but gentle finger pressure on selected acupoints in areas of tension is to be used to draw attention and to release muscular holding patterns, allowing the smooth, harmonious, balanced flow of energy through the bodymind. This can put one in touch with a deep sense of harmony, relaxation, and awareness, which can relieve physical tension and pain and help stimulate creative and self-healing energies. In its most basic form, it is a simple, easy to learn, valuable self-help tool that can be shared with family and friends. In the hands of a skilled and sensitive practitioner, it can be a powerful, profoundly effective, transformative tool, which is easily incorporated into other therapeutic methods. What is Jin Shin Do good for?It is 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, and muscular and emotional stress and tension. Who can receive it?Anyone can use it, including animals. Practitioners have worked in special programs in schools, hospitals, birthing centers, senior centers, hospices, as well as homes and stables. Several practitioners specialize in animal acupressure for horses, cats, dogs, and other animals. Because the method uses only finger pressure and no rubbing, it has few contraindications. The Acupressurist does not touch a contagious skin disease or open sore; does not press on bruises or varicosities in areas where phlebitis occurs; and does not touch injuries which are too painful, although one can still work around the pain to help ease it. Because of its inherent non-invasiveness, Jin Shin Do can be safely used with surgical, cancer, or AIDS patients and can provide comforting touch where other types of bodywork are contraindicated. What happens in a Jin Shin Do session?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, take a medical history, solicit his or her objective for the session, take the energy pulses, palpate acupoints, and ask questions to further identify what areas are asking for attention. The work is done with gentle, firm finger pressure on the acupoints. 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. The client may even fall into a refreshing state of near-sleep as the release process proceeds. The session usually ends with a Neck and Shoulder Release, some points for centering, and some form of foot massage for grounding. Clients usually feel more relaxed and perhaps even energized 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 and condition. Christine Ford |
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