What is Shiatsu Massage?
Shiatsu massage is an old traditional, Japanese healing method most commonly known as acupressure. Shiatsu massage means finger pressure massage technique in which a pressure is applied not only with fingers but also with thumbs, palms, knees, forearms, elbows and feet depending upon the specific condition. Pressure is applied to the meridians (areas of energy lines) to unblock energy blockages and stimulate the body's energy flow (chi). Shiatsu believes that any physical problem or a disease is the result of blocked or unbalanced energy and so in order to balance it energy blocks should be unblocked.
Shiatsu massage is based on the theory of yin, a negative force, yang a positive force and the 5 elements. The unbalance of any of these forces is responsible for causing any disorder. So in order to give a proper shiatsu massage treatment the knowledge and understanding of this theory is very essential.
Shiatsu is a preventative and effective treatment that helps to balance person's energy flow and strengthen the vital organs. Shiatsu done along with stretching, exercise, and a healthy diet, may help to improve your health. Many are often confused between acupressure (Shiatsu) and acupuncture. Shiatsu massage involves the use of fingers, whereas in acupuncture pressure is applied with the use of needles.
How to do Shiatsu massage?
Usually a shiatsu massage session lasts between 40 minutes to one hour. Firstly the shiatsu massages therapist checks whether the energy flows healthily and where it may be blocked. A person who is going to have a shiatsu massage should wear thin, loose and comfortable clothes. He then lies on a padded mat on a floor. Shiatsu massage therapist begins his session with light massage and gentle stretching, which helps in relaxation of muscles. Then using his fingers, hands, elbows, knees, or feet applies pressure on precise points depending upon the body's need. Pressure may be calming or sometimes deeply stimulating.
Shiatsu massage works on the whole body by combining the philosophical, spiritual and medical aspects of the body. After having a shiatsu massage many people feel tickling or tender sensation and feel more relaxed. Your breathing may become deeper and you may feel as if the energy is flowing throughout your body. It also helps to have a positive approach. Many people are benefited after having a shiatsu massage.
Benefits of Shiatsu massage
Shiatsu produces sedative and analgesic effects. Shiatsu massage can help in relieving the pain associated with a variety of disorders. It not only helps to balance the body but also helps to promote health and strengthen body's healing capabilities. Shiatsu massage is given as a treatment for many respiratory and digestive problems. It also helps to control the activity of autonomic nervous system and stimulate the lymphatic, circulatory and hormonal systems. The other benefits of shiatsu massage include:
- Reduction of stress
- Deep muscle relaxation
- Lessens disorders like anxiety, arthritis, leg cramps, depression, headaches, nausea etc.
- Relief from conditions like digestive dysfunction, insomnia, high blood pressure and muscle problems
- Increases flexibility
- Improves posture and breathing
- Reduces blood pressure
- Increases blood circulation
- Balances body's energy flow
- Helps in preventing diseases
- Promotes sleep
- Relief of carpal tunnel syndrome