Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu massage is a finger pressure massage technique that has become very popular. The therapist applies pressure using thumbs, finger, and palm to specific areas of the clients body that have been determined during an assessment period prior to the massage session. Shiatsu massage therapy is based on the Chinese meridien system.

What is the Chinese Meridien System?

The Chinese meridien healing system is based on the concept that an insufficient supply of chi (or energy) makes a person vulnerable to disease. Restoring the chi is the ultimate goal. Massage therapists, acupuncturists, and Chinese herbalists assist clients in repairing dysfunctional areas within their meridien systems.

There are 12 major meridians that correspond to specific human organs; kidneys, liver, spleen, heart, lungs, pericardium, bladder, gall bladder, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and the body temperature regulator. Yin meridians flow upwards and Yang meridiens flow downwards.

Shiatsu massage involves tapping, squeezing, rubbing, and applying pressure with the hands on the meridien areas to unblock energy blockages and allow for the optimal flow of chi.

How Does Shiatsu Massage Actually Work?

With the patient lying on a mat on the floor or on a massage table, a Shiatsu practitioner will use his or her hands, elbows, knees and feet to balance your meridian. The practitioner applies pressure to appropriate points on the body to correct injuries or imbalances. Shiatsu works on the whole being, from the physical to the spiritual, so during and after treatment the patient may experience reactions such as crying, laughing, joy, or stillness. These reactions show that the body is breaking through old energy patterns.

When Should Shiatsu Massage Be Used?

Shiatsu massage focuses on treating the body as a whole rather than attempting to stop the superficial symptoms because treating the body as a whole will bring about more effective and longer lasting change. In general, Shiatsu can be used to treat respiratory problems, digestive problems, headaches, and leg cramps.

As the whole body is treated, the natural ability to heal is stimulated as Shiatsu massage works to restore the physical functions of the nervous system, the circulatory system, the muscles, and bone structure.

Additional benefits of Shiatsu Massage:

Like most massage therapies, Shiatsu massage may not be appropriate for certain medical conditions such as acute disorders, tumours, acute inflammation, ulcers, and serious diseases. You should consult your doctor before embarking on any course of treatment.

Shiatsu massage is believed to be both healing and preventative. Shiatsu massage combined with stretching, exercise, and a healthy diet, may improve your health. You should always seek out a well trained and qualified practitioner to get the best results from a Shiatsu massage.