What is Jin Shin Do® ?

Origins and evolution

Jin Shin Do® means “The Way of the Compassionate Spirit”. In the Japanese language “Jin” = understanding, benevolence, compassion (understood with the Western term of empathy); “Shin”=spirit, mind, inner part; “Do” = way, movement, change, path: similar to the Chinese meaning of Tao.

It is a technique that uses delicate, respectful but also deep pressure on the points also used in acupuncture.

As regards the component of Western origin, acupressure is accompanied by verbal techniques, such as body focusing by E.Gendlin, bioenergetics by A.Lowen, segmental release theory by W.Reich and some communication principles by M.Erickson .

The contribution to this technique of ancient oriental wisdom consists of various methodologies, such as Japanese acupressure, the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, Taoist philosophy and Qigong breathing and movement exercises.

Jin Shin Do® was conceived and developed by the psychotherapist Iona Marsaa Teguarden, synthesizing and fusing these different techniques.

How does Jin Shin Do® work?

The Jin Shin Do® treatment is performed by an operator qualified by the International Jin Shin Do® Foundation. In acupressure, the fingers, thumbs and even the palms of the hands are used. A pleasant state of relaxation and trance is promoted, letting go of rationality and thus accessing one’s sensations, emotions and inner wisdom.

Jin Shin Do® allows you to release physical and emotional tensions, transforming them rather than suppressing them.

This release allows vital energy to circulate again and distribute itself freely, facilitating the resolution of states of anxiety and thus promoting general well-being.

An immediate benefit is established, which initiates a positive change of greater proportions and in the long term.

Techniques and Practices:

Stimulating one point helps reduce tension and pain in three main ways:

1)Relaxing muscle tension;

2)Balancing the body’s vital energy;

3)Increasing the production of endorphins in the tissues.

A localized point in the area of ​​discomfort, tension or pain is used, called a “Local Point”.

At the same time, this is associated with a distant point called the “Distal Point”, which is able to help it relax.The pressure applied is gradual but not too strong, so as not to risk producing stiffness or pain.

The duration of the pressure can vary from 1 to 3 minutes, depending on the extent of the energy imbalance in the treated area.

During the pressure you perceive a release of tension and a sensation of energetic and emotional restoration.

Benefits of Jin Shin Do®:

They are varied both on a physical and psychological level:

1) Re-establish energetic and psycho-physical balance;

2) Stimulate a deep state of relaxation;

3) Release and reduce physical and emotional tensions;

4) Mitigate stress-related problems;

5) Facilitate and increase a profound inner awareness of the interaction between body and mind.

Jin Shin Do® compared to other treatments:

The acupressure exercised during the Jin Shin Do® treatment differs, for example, from that of Shiatsu, as it has a much slower rhythm and sequence, which however produces a deeper effect on both a physical and psychological level.

During the Jin Shin Do® treatment, the recipient remains clothed and there is no use of oils or creams.

Conclusions:

Jin Shin Do® acupressure is a useful tool for the relief of physical and/or mental problems due to stress or trauma.

It is a relaxation technique and not a diagnosis, therapy or treatment of pathologies.

Furthermore, it is also a valid aid for healthcare personnel, such as doctors, psychologists, physiotherapists, etc.

In the presence of persistent symptoms, even apparently mild ones, we suggest contacting your doctor.

When used simultaneously with medical treatment, Jin Shin Do® treatment can assist the healing process, releasing tension, reducing stress and stimulating a sense of well-being.

Jin Shin Do® treatments are recognized in the United States of America, among the main techniques of oriental derivation by the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) and by the AOBTA (American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia).

Jin Shin Do® is a registered trademark in the United States of America, at the Patents & Trademark Office. Jin Shin Do® is also a registered trademark in Canada, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland and in all member states of the European Union.

What is Jin Shin Do®?

Psychocorporeal energy technique for the release of tension: it promotes a pleasant beneficial state between body and mind.

“Jin Shin Do”® means “The Way of the Compassionate Spirit”.

Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® uses gentle yet deep pressure on specific points and verbal Body Focusing techniques to help release “armor” or chronic tension, balance “Qi” or energy and improve vitality.

This method, applied while the recipient remains dressed, helps alleviate issues related to stress and trauma.

Unique synthesis of a traditional Japanese acupressure technique, classical Chinese acupuncture theory, Taoist philosophy, Qigong (breathing and exercise techniques), Reich’s segmental theory and some principles of Ericksonian psychotherapy, Jin Shin acupressure Do® was created by Iona Marsaa Teeguarden.


The Jin Shin Do® Bodymind Acupressure® is not to be considered a diagnostic technique, therapeutic or treatment of pathologies. It is instead a form of relaxation, and a useful complement to medical or psychological treatments carried out by qualified personnel. For any persistent pain or symptoms, even seemingly minor ones, the reader is strongly encouraged to consult a doctor. When used in conjunction with standard care, the Jin Shin Do* acupressure technique can aid the healing process by releasing tension, decreasing stress, and promoting a sense of increased well-being.

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