Learning about the Shiatsu Massage
What is the Japanese shiatsu massage?
The famous shiatsu massage is actually a very effective way to relax. However, the main theory of shiatsu is not merely about relaxation because it addresses the holistic bodywork. It makes use of similar techniques with acupressure, making use of the hand, knees, thumbs, and sometimes even the elbows.
The technique associated with acupressure actually originated from the acupuncture techniques and other methods of traditional Chinese medicine. A big difference between acupressure and acupuncture is that in the latter, the massage therapist makes use of very thin needles, while with the former, the masseuse utilizes deep pressure which penetrates right up to the deep tissues on the twelve meridians of the human body.
Oriental shiatsu
Oriental shiatsu became very famous and widely practiced in the country of Japan. In fact, it was quite common to find out that at least one woman in the family knew how to practice shiatsu in order to help the other members of their family with regards to pain relief.
It has very many benefits. Moreover, it is actually because of such benefits that shiatsu is now widely known as an effective healing technique. However, according to medical scientists, shiatsu does not heal the disease itself; it only has a direct effect on the meridians of the body.
How does shiatsu work?
The shiatsu massage works by unblocking the chi in the meridian points of the body. The blockage of the chi is believed to be the cause of many ailments. According to the philosophy of oriental medicine, the main reason regarding the occurrence of various diseases is that the chi is not properly balanced inside the body. With shiatsu, the harmony of the chi can be reached.
Pressure points
Along the pressure points used for acupressure are the energy meridians. When applying pressure to these areas, the pressure should be applied slowly with soft but deep penetrations. During these times, the client may experience a little pain. The masseuse, on the other hand, is concerned about using every muscle of the body in applying pressure on the body’s meridians.
Different positions
During a shiatsu session, the client should interchange positions starting with a supine position on the back, then on the stomach, then on both sides. This change of positions allows the massage therapist to apply the necessary pressure on each of the meridian points.
Zen shiatsu
This type of shiatsu was actually first introduced by Shizuto Masunaga. Everybody knows that Zen is a method for relaxation. It is believed that a shiatsu therapist knows how to practice Zen meditations. The harmony of the body and the mind that is associated with Zen helps people understand about the how the chi acts inside the body, and also about the principle of the meridians and their effects on the general health of the clients.
About the Chakra
The human body has some energy meridians that are called Chakra. It is said to be found in each of the palms of the hands. Each of the fingers is said to have an energy ending as well. How pure or powerful the energy is responsible for conveying the vital life powers through out the entire body.

