Spirit Dragon Healing Arts
Amma Therapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Massage Therapy and Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Amma Therapy different from massage?
Amma is a holistic therapy that includes Traditional Chinese Medicine, nutrition, supplements and works the qi, blood and fluids in the body while working on muscles and the meridians in the body. Oil is not generally used, however liniments may be depending on the treatment. Undressing is not necessary as long as I can work through the fabric you are wearing (cotton as an example, no denim) and I always suggest to undress to your comfort level.
How is Amma Therapy similar to Acupuncture?
Amma Therapy is similar to Acupuncture in that they are both based in Traditional Chinese Medicine, however, Amma does not use needles to reach acu-points. Acu-points are reached through circular digital pressure and direct touch to the points. Amma also includes bodywork where Acupuncture generally does not.
What is cupping?
Cupping is one of the oldest methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Originally, practitioners would use hollowed-out animal horns for cups, and place them over particular points or meridians. Today, cups made of thick glass or plastic are used, although bamboo, iron and pottery cups are still used in other countries. When glass cups are used, they are warmed with a cotton ball that is on fire for only a split second. Burning a substance inside the cup removes all the oxygen, which creates a vacuum. As the substance burns, the cup is turned upside-down so that I can place the cup over a specific area. The vacuum created by the lack of oxygen anchors the cup to the skin and pulls it upward on the inside of the glass as the air inside the jar cools. Drawing up the skin is believed to open up the skin’s pores, which helps to stimulate the flow of blood, balances and realigns the flow of qi, breaks up obstructions, and creates an avenue for toxins to be drawn out of the body. Cups are usually on for 5 minutes and several cups are usually used. If glass cups are not used, plastic cups are used with out fire. Instead, a pump is used to get the vacuum effect. It is usually not painful however you will feel a pulling sensation as the skin is vacuumed into the cup. While cupping is considered safe (especially air cupping, which does not include the risk of fire and heat), it can cause some swelling and blueish-purple circular marks that can seem startling. They are actually not bruises but toxins getting pulled up to the skin level.
What is Gua Sha?
"Gua" means to scrape or rub, and "Sha" is the term used for the reddish raised skin that is a result of the scraping (it looks like a rash but is not). Gua Sha involves lubricating the skin with a lubricant, using a smooth edged instrument, and using long or short strokes over the pertaining area. Gua Sha is used for acute or chronic pain.
Testimonials
"I visited Erin knowing little about Amma and feeling unsure if it would be worthwhile in helping me to balance my system. Erin took the time to explain Amma and the specific approaches she uses. As soon as she began speaking, I felt at ease and knew I would be in good hands. I had several sessions with Erin and always left feeling balanced, whole, and relaxed. Amma truly works and I would recommend Erin to others in a heartbeat."
E. Ashkenazy
"Erin is a knowledgeable and skillful healer. She expertly locates areas of tension in my body and knows how to loosen things up. I'm impressed with her perception of how things are connected. Erin takes the time to get to know her clients and truly cares about their well-being and comfort. I always come away feeling peaceful and balanced."
Emily B.
"Erin has such a calm and kind spirit. The minute you walk into her office you will feel comfort in the peaceful atmosphere and in her personal attentiveness to finding the best treatment for you. She made me feel so relaxed and cared for by answering all of my questions with a warm smile and I left feeling great. I would recommend her to anyone! Whether you are familiar with Amma Therapy or someone trying it for the first time, Erin is the right person to see."
Carrie C.
”I had Erin work on me thinking it would be just some meditation therapy with a light massage. I couldn't have been more wrong! Very soothing but also the massage was legit. During the session, I was so relaxed by her voice and the surrounding environment that I fell asleep! Definitely can't wait to go back!"
Owen D.