Anma is a refined form of Japanese bodywork adapted from Chinese massage (Tui-na). It involves kneading and rolling movements that stimulate circulation and provide a relaxing effect for the receiver. Anma is deep-stimulating bodywork for the receiver but is particularly easy on the practitioner’s body due to the body mechanics of the techniques.
Anma means to press (An) and rub (Ma). It also means to spread peace by rubbing or to calm with the hands. Anma is one of the oldest forms of massage in the world and it is the oldest form of bodywork in the Orient. This therapy comes from ancient China and is over 5000 years old. Some speculate that Anma's true origins lie in India and is well over 10,000 years old. Anma was first brought to Japan by warrior monks from China through Korea about 1,500 years ago. In China this therapy is pronounced Anmo. When Anmo was brought to Japan the technique was further refined and developed into its own therapeutic art form. Over the years Anma has influenced the birth of many other forms of massage. Such as Shiatsu, Tuina and Swedish Massage.
Anma therapy is based on the principles of Oriental Medicine. This ancient healing art uses special techniques to stimulate key points (Tsubo) on the surface of the skin to promote the body's natural self healing abilities. When these points are stimulated they release muscular tension which facilitates the circulation of blood and energy (Kiketsu). This Is The Intention Of Anma Massage.
Unlike Western Massage, Anma utilises no oils, can be done through the clothing with the client either sitting or lying down. Also this therapy can be applied anywhere and at anytime. One can also learn to give Anma to oneself or others. This makes Anma an extremely flexible style of massage, suitable to a wide variety of client needs and environments.
The Effects of Anma Therapy
Anma massage is a way to balance the body and calm irritated nerves. It normalises sluggish bodily functions and is used to keep the body healthy and strong. Anma reduces tension, increases circulation and revives and rejuvenates the body while enabling the body to also deeply relax. When tensions are released in the body the immune system functions smoothly. This allows the body to adapt to environmental changes and resist illness. Tension in the body is caused by a build up of lactic acid and is a result of fatigue, trauma, stress, chemical imbalances and above all poor circulation. During Anma massage, muscles relax which allows blood and energy (Kiketsu) to flow freely, then toxins are released and eliminated.
Unlike Western Medicine, Anma therapy does not ignore simple symptoms of everyday complaints. These symptoms of headache, dizziness, back pains, etc. are considered an expression of the condition of the body as a whole. Anma responds before these symptoms or imbalances can do further damage to the body which leads to "dis-ease".
The Various Uses of Anma Massage
Anma massage compliments your medical care by allowing you to take a vital part in getting and staying well. In addition to maintaining health, Anma can also be used to relieve and prevent sports injuries, compliment chiropractic treatments, and restore and balance the emotions. Psychotherapy patients benefit greatly from this. Anma massage therapy is also applied for a wide range of ailments such as, headache, colds, asthma, numbness, high or low blood pressure, constipation, stomach cramps, menstrual irregularity, sexual vitality and insomnia.
The Nine Major Sections of Anma
There are nine major categories of techniques within the art of Anma. Each section allows you to work the body in a uniquely different way. These nine sections create various effects that assist in the achievement of the goals of Anma Therapy. During an Anma massage all nine areas are utilised which creates a very complete full body therapy.
In Japan some therapist specialise in applying only three or four sections of techniques in combination for their practice. Another use of Anma techniques is the cultivation of the therapist's own health. As a whole, human beings have grown very weak in health, endurance and we use less of our brain's capacity. Anma techniques are not only designed to help assist the client increase their health, but when applied correctly, these nine sections of techniques cultivate the therapists health and deepen our consciousness and expand our awareness as well.
- Keisatsu Ho (Light stroking techniques)
- Junen Ho (Kneading techniques)
- Shinsen Ho (Vibration techniques)
- Appaku Ho (Pressure techniques)
- Koda Ho (Percussion techniques)
- Kyokute Ho (Special percussion techniques)
- Undo Ho (Movement therapy & exercises)
- Kyosatsu Ho (Rotation & stroking with heavy pressure)
- Haaku Ho (Gripping & squeezing techniques)
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