Amma Therapy

I am not currently accepting new clients for Amma Therapy. If you would like a referral for another Amma Therapist in the Portland Metro area let me know and I will be happy to connect you.

Amma, meaning “push-pull,” is one of the oldest known words to describe massage. It dates back more than 5,000 years ago during the legendary Yellow Emperor of China and predates acupuncture. Amma Therapy is a lineage healing art form that is unique in that it utilizes both Eastern principles rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine as well as the knowledge of Western thought as an approach to organ dysfunction. Like acupuncture, Amma focuses on the movement and harmonization of Qi (in a nutshell, Qi means “energy” although it is much more than just that ), which not only addresses the symptom, but the root cause as well. This is achieved by using the strength and
sensitivity of the Amma Therapist’s hands to open the organ meridian channels of the body using circular pressure, deep tissue manipulation and application of direct pressure to acupoints that are specifically relevant to the client’s needs.

FAQ’s

1. What should I expect with a treatment?

For the first time visit the client and practitioner will go over the initial intake form and discuss the clients health concerns and goals. The practitioner will look at the client’s tongue and feel the pulses for additonal needed assessment. The client will privately undress to their comfort level (leaving underwear on) and get under the blankets on the massage table lying down on their back. An Amma treatment is a hands on bodywork that starts at the head, works down each specific organ merdian channel, down to the feet. The client will then turn facedown on the table where the treatment continues from the neck, again working down each specific organ meridian channel, down to the feet. During the entire course of the treatment, specific acupoints will be activated that are individualized to the client’s needs.

2. Do acupoints hurt?

Some points are more sensitive than others, depending on the person. Of course, the pressure by the practitioner can be less or more, depending on the client’s preference. Generally speaking, more sensitive points often mean there is “stagnant Qi” which means it desperately wants to be released, even if it doesn’t feel that way in the moment! With all that being said, when an acupoint is being activated you really do intuitively know that it is working and will often times feel a release.

3. How will I feel afterwards?

Good question! I have heard a wide range of positive and blissful descriptions but by and large what I hear the most is “revitalizing” and a feeling of calmness and peace, but with an underlying sense of energy. I wish I would’ve written down all the responses I’ve heard! People can go straight back to work and feel refreshed, not tired or groggy.

4. Anything else to expect?

I often will use topicals or liniments to address muscle tension, bruises, scar tissue or respiratory congestion. Sometimes Guasha, ear seeds, moxa or cupping may be implemented. Herbal recommendations and Wholistic Nutrition guidelines may also be included if beneficial for the client. Amma is not a “cookie cutter” treatment approach as each client has their unique differences and needs and I make adjustments to the sessions as needed. Sometimes the most effective approach is a straight forward Amma session without the bells and whistles!

5. Have a different question?

Shoot me an email or phone call. I will get back to you as soon as possible!