These guys are fantastic healers. Just be prepared to shed a tear or two in the process.
When I worked in Ashfield, a trip to Ling Nan TCM Centre was a fortnightly experience. They knew exactly how to fix me, no matter my ailment, and as the masseuse was an acupuncturist and herbalist as well, I trusted that he wasn't just kneading my muscles aimlessly, but knew the right buttons to push. I found this out on one particular visit to see Edward Chen.
I came to see Mr Chen with a back injury (he specialises in sports injuries as well as herbs, acupuncture, massage and reflexology). My back had worsened and worsened until I couldn't bend to pick up a glass, let alone tie my shoelaces. I explained how I got the injury to Mr Chen, who in turn explained to me what he was going to do.
"At one point you will ask me to stop," he explained. "I won't. I will keep going to fix you."
I agreed without hesitation. As potentially frightening as this line could have been, I trusted Mr Chen and by this point was getting desperate.
He was correct - at one point during the massage, with one thumb in a point in the back of my leg, I let out a scream and began crying hysterically, asking him to stop. This only lasted 10 seconds, but it was intense. As I calmed down, Mr Chen explained to me that the pressure point was also an emotional trigger - thus the crying. Leaving the massage room at the end of my session, I entered a room full of now apprehensive clients - I dare say I would be apprehensive too if I heard desperate pleas and screams coming from a room I was about to enter. My back was perfect the next day.
Even now as I live in Lilyfield, I will travel to Ashfield for a massage from this man. I've never cried or been hurt again, so don't fear - this isn't a common experience. He has magic hands and the prices here are notably lower than at most other massage and/or acupuncture clinics in the city (full body massage for only $45). Highly Recommended. read more