Our Story
Touch for Health Kinesiology has been transforming lives for over 50 years. Developed by Dr. John F. Thie in the 1970s, TFH combines muscle testing, acupressure, and holistic wellness techniques to help individuals take charge of their health. What began as a simple self-care system has grown into a globally recognized approach to energy balancing, influencing the fields of Energy Kinesiology, Energy Medicine, and personal well-being. Today the Touch for Health Kinesiology Association (TFHKA) continues Dr. Thie’s legacy in the U.S. by promoting TFH education, providing continuing education certification for health professionals and creating a supportive community for those dedicated to holistic health.
The Origins of Touch for Health
Touch for Health (TFH) was developed in the early 1970s by Dr. John F. Thie, a chiropractor from Pasadena, California. Dr. Thie sought to create an accessible, self-care system that integrated principles from chiropractic, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), naturopathy, osteopathy, and energy kinesiology. His approach combined muscle testing, acupressure, meridian balancing, and holistic wellness techniques to help individuals take an active role in their health.
Inspired by Dr. George Goodheart’s work in Applied Kinesiology, Dr. Thie saw the potential for muscle testing beyond clinical practice. He envisioned a way for individuals and families to use these techniques for personal well-being and self-care, leading to the publication of his book, Touch for Health, in 1973.
Since its creation, Touch for Health has transformed millions of lives worldwide, influencing the fields of Energy Kinesiology, Energy Medicine, and Energy Psychology. TFH techniques have been incorporated into massage therapy, sports medicine, psychology, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and personal development.
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By focusing on self-awareness, posture alignment, and energy balance, Touch for Health empowers individuals to take control of their health naturally.
Touch for Health’s Global Impact
The Birth of the Touch for Health Kinesiology Association (TFHKA)
In 1975, Dr. Thie founded the Touch for Health Foundation to support education and training in TFH. As the movement grew, the International Kinesiology College (IKC) was established to maintain global training standards. In 1990, the Touch for Health Kinesiology Association (TFHKA) was created as a member-run, non-profit organization to continue promoting TFH education in the U.S.
With the support of dedicated volunteers, TFHKA has evolved into a thriving national community, offering:
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Annual Touch for Health Conferences (held for 50 consecutive years)
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Instructor Training & Certification
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Educational Resources & Membership Support
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A Quarterly eNewsletter and Annual Journal
Today, TFHKA continues to champion holistic health, personal empowerment, and self-care. As a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization, TFHKA remains committed to advancing TFH education, maintaining records of students and instructors, and fostering connections within the TFH community.
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We are proud to honor the legacy of Dr. John & Carrie Thie and uphold Touch for Health as a powerful, accessible tool for well-being.
Join us in continuing this journey—empowering wellness, one balanced muscle at a time.