In the midst of the Global Peace Prayer Festival, another form of healing took place in the capital, one that spoke not to the mind but to the body. The centuries-old Tir Tar Therapy drew hundreds, seeking balance, alignment, and renewal. Tir Tar is a traditional Chinese practice focusing on correcting musculoskeletal issues and aligning the body’s structure.
As cries of relief and release echoed through the hall, Kezang Choden waited with her 12-year-old daughter for their turn.
Though anxious, she hoped that the ancient therapy might bring comfort to her child, who has limited mobility due to her disabilities.
“We came here from Changangkha. If we do this often, I think it will loosen the muscle of my child that has become tight. I think it will help those with muscle and back pain.”
The session welcomed people from all walks of life, from the Central Monastic Body to the Royal Society for Senior Citizens and students from inclusive schools. Many others came seeking relief from chronic pain and stiffness.
Deki Zam, Executive Director, Draktsho said, “When we identified the children for the session, we chose those living with physical disabilities, even temporary disabilities due to accident. From Draktsho, we have 17 people including teachers. We were a bit scared initially to come here but it is very nice.”
Gyaltshen, Gym Trainer, Rooftop Gym said, “It is very helpful as they are experts. I can’t speak for those with broken bones and paralysis due to stroke. But I have seen people like me who have been in the sport field for long time and exercises a lot has also come here. They are here because their muscles and joints are stiff. We have come to know from them that the cause is because we tend to not warm up.”
Tir Tar is an ancient Chinese therapy that focuses on realigning joints and bones while easing tension in muscles and tendons. This non-invasive technique is believed to relieve pain, improve flexibility, and restore the body’s natural harmony.
Leading the session is Master Chris Leong from Malaysia, a globally recognised Tir Tar practitioner with millions of followers online.
Renowned Tir Tar practitioners Erik Leong, along with 20 other therapists, also joined him.
Chris Leong said, “Tir Tar, they have good methods so I got this method learning from a generation and it’s quite effective and straightforward. You can see its effective and helping people. So, I thought why not I come here and treat people at the same time, as I got all the volunteers who are willing to learn so, I will teach all the art to Bhutan.”
Organised by the De-suung office with support from the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority, the special session coincides with the Global Peace Prayer Festival, bringing together the themes of physical healing and spiritual well-being.
Colonel Sisir Chhetri, Officer on Special Duty, De-suung Office said, “People from all the districts are here due to Global Peace Prayer Festival and the Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. We wanted to bring something different that has not been practiced. They are globally known and they had done lots of healing.”
The De-suung Skilling programme is also planning for a possible future collaboration, hoping that Tir Tar therapy will continue to benefit Bhutanese beyond today’s event.
Singye Dema
Edited by Tshering Zam
