Definition: Acupressure Training

Acupressure: What You Need to Know

Jin Shin Do ("The Way of the Compassionate Spirit") is a therapeutic technique of massage. It combines elements of Japanese acupressure, Chinese acupuncture, Reichian segmental theory, Qigong, principles of Ericksonian psychotherapy, and Taoist philosophy. Developed by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden, M.A., L.M.F.C.C., this therapy uses verbal body focusing techniques, exercises to help release "armoring" or chronic tension and balance the Qi. Acupressure theory says that bodymind wellbeing is also influenced by energy balance in the "channels" or "meridians" lines of related points through which Qi (energy) moves. The massage is done fully clothed. Jin Shin Do is based on the "Strange Flows," which provide a shortcut to balancing the body energy. It uses a unique 45 point system, a color-coded chart and simple "release examples". As the student progresses, s/he learns the twelve "Organ Meridians" and, eventually, a couple hundred points. Jin Shin Do classes teach how to combine these powerful points, by pressing one or more "distal points" while a point of tension, or "local point," is held.

It contrasts with Shiatsu in being a more slow-paced method and focusing more on deep release of muscular armoring.

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.

"Acupressure" refers to any technique using finger pressure on "acupoints" to reduce stress and balance the body energy. An "acupressure" method may be simple and symptomatic, or sophisticated and deeply therapeutic. Jin Shin Do® covers both ends of this spectrum, for it can be used both as a selfhelp tool and as a professional therapeutic method. It brings about pleasurable, deep relaxation and increased awareness of both body and psyche. Jin Shin Do® contrasts with acupuncture in the absence of needles, and because one individual is touched by another in a highly supportive way which evokes the feeling of being held, cradled and safe. It contrasts with Shiatsu in being a more slow & shy paced method and focusing more on deep release of muscular armoring.

Jin Shin Do® is based on the "Strange Flows," which provide a shortcut to balancing the body energy. It uses a unique 45 point system, a color-coded chart and simple "release examples" (like recipes) to make it easy for anyone to use Jin Shin Do® to help self, family and friends. As the student progresses, s/he learns the twelve "Organ Meridians" and, eventually, a couple hundred points. Jin Shin Do® classes teach how to combine these powerful points, by pressing one or more "distal points" while a point of tension, or "local point," is held. The distal points help to release tense areas more easily, deeply and pleasurably.

Release of tension improves bodymind wellbeing, and learning that we can transform pain to pleasure is a psychological boost. Acupressure theory says that bodymind wellbeing is also influenced by energy balance in the "channels" or "meridians" lines of related points through which Qi (energy) moves. JSD recipients report experiencing this "energy flow" as a pleasant "tingling" or "streaming."

For further information see: The Acupressure Way of Health: Jin Shin Do, The Joy of Feeling: Bodymind Acupressure™ (available from JSDF), and the revised edition of A Complete Guide to Acupressure by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden. For qualified instruction on the details and professional applications of JSD® Bodymind Acupressure™, seek instruction from an authorized, certificated teacher, who will prominently display the Jin Shin Do trademark symbol & can be found on www.jinshindo.org. To protect the quality of the art, "Jin Shin Do" has been registered as a service mark in the United States, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway, the Benelux countries and the European Community. CTM registration covers 25 member countries. Registration elsewhere is pending. JSDF was founded as a trade organization in 1982.

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