Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on therapy that originates from Japan. The name shiatsu is derived from Japanese word “shi”, meaning finger, and “atsu” meaning pressure.
Shiatsu massage uses acupressure techniques and applies them with hands, thumbs, elbows and knees. According to the oriental medicine practitioners, health problems are caused by blocked chi, or inner vital energy.
Shiatsu practitioner uses deep tissue pressure on the twelve body Meridians, to help unblock the Meridian points where the chi is blocked and causes health problems. Shiatsu massage is a great way of relaxation but it is much more than this, it is a holistic body work used to reach the harmony of chi in the human body.
Benefits of shiatsu massage
Shiatsu massage was first developed around 530 B.C. and it became popular in the United States in 1970s. Shiatsu was first used for treating simple muscular tension and for relaxation, but many of the shiatsu practitioners today use shiatsu to assist in treatment of wide variety of health conditions and symptoms. Shiatsu massage stimulates the circulation in the capillaries and stimulates the secretion of sebaceous glands. This gives the elasticity to the skin and prevents signs of aging.
Shiatsu is beneficial for patients with arthritis, as it may help to alleviate the symptoms of this disease: inflammation of the tissues and pain in the joints. It also relaxes the muscles and provides them with nutrition from circulation, while eliminating muscular pain.
Shiatsu is great means of fighting migraines and headaches, as it relaxes the body and increases the blood flow in the brain, neck and head.
This acupressure technique is very beneficial for women, especially during their menstrual cycles and during pregnancy. The use of shiatsu may alleviate menstrual cramping, depression, and help women in labor.
Shiatsu massage is also beneficial for circulatory and digestive system, as it improves the blood circulation and exchange of the nutrients throughout the body. It promotes digesting and assists in elimination of waste products.
Shiatsu techniques
In a nutshell, shiatsu techniques are used to invigorate muscles and promote blood flow to certain areas in the body. Shiatsu practitioner uses combination of massage techniques with stretching and pulling one’s arms and legs. Acupressure and massage techniques are used in combination with stretches, joint rotations and joint manipulation.
The purpose of applying these techniques is to maintain physical and mental well being, treat disease, or alleviate discomfort. Each session normally lasts somewhere between 40 minutes and an hour.
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