All About Shiatsu

Shiatsu is an ancient form of therapy designed to relieve stress and promote healing of bodily ailment. Shiatsu’s origin dates back over 2000 years ago in China. Basically, it applies massage therapy using the fingertips thus obtaining the Japanese name of shi, which means finger and atsu, which means pressure. Shiatsu when compared to acupuncture, does not make use of any needles which is the primary equipment in acupuncture.

Shiatsu is almost similar to acupressure, the main difference lies in the placement of the massage. In acupressure, the massage is done primarily over the acupoint. In Shiatsu, the massage offers a greater range of massage and extends beyond these points. Shiatsu also involves stretching and manipulating the muscles of the body. The movements in a Shiatsu massage are accomplished through increasing pressure in a rhythmic pattern. The hands are used to apply a “holding pressure” with gradual release. This holding pressure would be much along the lines of a more spiritual touch.

Further, shiatsu follows the principles regarding energy flow through energy channels or meridians which is also the same with acupressure. In the practice of oriental medicine, they believe that humans have a life energy or force. This force commands the entire stability of the body, to include physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional aspects. It is this energy flow which balances the body or it maintains body equilibrium. In an event where the body experiences any turmoil such as an injury or stress related disturbances, this will bring about imbalance in the life energy. Eventually, this will result to a variety of health related problems. The relief of applied shiatsu has been known to bring the body back into balance promoting general well being.

Similarly, touching someone in a gentle or caring way has been known to do wonders for the body. It has been known to heal premature infants and make people thrive when all hope has been lost. The touching in shiatsu follows these same healing principles. Shiatsu, therefore, can also be referred to as a form of touch therapy.

The more modern version of shiatsu applies somewhat of a more involved type of massage, which includes the ancient style as well as the modern version. This modern version includes more movements that can include vibrating, grasping, shaking movements, as well as other types of movement. It, as well, can include the practice of walking on someone’s back, which is known as the barefoot shiatsu version.

Used as an alternative form of therapy, it is safe and does offer relief according to its faithful followers. However, as with any new type of treatment, it is always recommended to seek the advice of your physician before attempting this form of therapy. This is just a safety precaution to rule out any complications pertaining to your specific medical condition.

RESOURCES

International Business Times: All About Shiatsu Massage Techniques

Portland Shiatsu: What is Shiatsu

Therapy Directory: Shiatsu

Shiatsu Wellness center

University of Minnesota: Shiatsu

Restore the Balance of Energy