A Japanese technique similar to acupressure, uses finger and thumb pressure on precise body points to encourage the proper flow of Chi or Ki, as the Japanese call it, a vital force or energy believed to circulate through the body.

Tai chi, one style of qigong, is a martial art involving meditation and slow, flowing self–guided movements that follow set forms. It is intended to affect the flow of chi (energy) and bring about physical self–awareness.

Therapeutic touch does not involve actual physical contact. Despite its name the practitioner’s hands move in slow, rhythmic motion two to six inches above the patient in an effort to detect what are said to be blockages in the body’s energy field that may cause or contribute to illness. The technique was devised a few decades ago as a contemporary version of various ancient practices in which a healer consciously strives to direct and focus energy to the receiver to balance and unblock energy flows. Sessions typically last about 20 minutes and are said to produce a sense of relaxed well being, as well as relief from pain and other symptoms.

Trager Psychophysical Integration (trager approach) features gentle touch and rhythmic rocking and shaking movement, along with a series of directed body exercises intended to help identify and correct chronic tension patterns that affect posture and movement. Research suggests that it is beneficial for people with severe neuromuscular problems produced by injury or such diseases as multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy.