What is Shiatsu Massage?

Shiatsu massage uses gentle pressures and movements of the hands to ease pain and discomfort. Shiatsu can also be described as Japanese Wheel Therapy. Shiatsu is a modified form of Western massage therapy, is adapted to Japanese culture. As opposed to the other forms of massage therapy, Shiatsu incorporates some of the same treatment methods as massage but focuses more on using gentle, controlled pressure on specific parts of the body.

Shiatsu originated in China and has been used by Japanese people since ancient times. Shiatsu is a specific type of Japanese bodywork that has its roots in some pseudoscientific theories about the body's energy flow the chi meridians, chi meridians, as well as the qi (pronounced"chee") channels. The practice was rediscovered at the end of the twentieth century by Japanese master therapists such as Yukiji Ono, shiatsu is a fusion of some of the techniques of Swedish massage, yet retains its distinctive touch. Shiatsu uses manipulative hands actions, pressure with fingers as well as circular movements to control the muscles, tendons and ligaments. Practitioners believe that the body can heal itselfand that illness is caused by blockages or energy blocks inside the body. Thus, they believe that by unclogging these energy blockages and removing them, the body can self-heal itself.

Chi, which is pronounced Chee, which in Chinese literally means "energy", is the central concept behind the study and practice of shiatsu. Shiatsu practitioners believe that when pressure is applied at the right points on the body there are specific healing effects that occur. The practitioners believe that pressing with the fingertips, thumbs, and palms, to target the qi blockage area is the most effective method to get these outcomes. Shiatsu massage uses the fingers, thumbs, and palms to gently manipulate and restore Qi.

Although shiatsu massage can be performed using a mat that is professionally made, there are many advantages when it is done at home. The at-home version Shiatsu massage can provide the maximum flexibility, in contrast to standard Shiatsu massage, which demands the therapist to lie down on an elevated table. There are many variations of the therapy that require the therapist lay face-up on a raised "dummy" table, which allows them to place their feet on a cushion that is at an appropriate angle to make steady contact with meridians as they perform the required movements.

While Shiatsu is typically performed as part of a class on general massage in health centers, it is now a preferred option for those who want an intimate massage. Because of the direct, penetrating pressure that is particularly efficient when applied to certain points in the body. Although many practitioners believe any pressure applied to a certain Meridian is beneficial, some experts suggest that precise pressure using the fingers is more effective than any bodywork technique. It is vital to practice the entire shiatsu massage on the ground to determine how much pressure is needed to influence one particular meridian. While there are numerous benefits to having the practitioner perform the massage on the ground but the practitioner must stay aligned to prevent them from falling on the floor, which could cause injuries.

Shiatsu can help reduce stress and improve mood particularly when it is done in the evening hours. The relaxing effect of shiatsu can help those suffering from greater stress than normal. Shiatsu massage is a great way to induce sleep for those who are accustomed to sleeping for long periods. Massage may also be used prior to bedtime to help promote relaxation and assist in waking up. Certain massage therapists combine the treatment with music or other treatments, such as aromatherapy, to further soothe the client and increase the overall effectiveness of the therapy.

Many who chose to undergo shiatsu treatments at their homes report being capable of maintaining or improving mobility after the session. They reported that they were able to move more freely and experience lesser muscle spasms. Shiatsu practitioners can also suggest stretching methods to their clients in order to increase flexibility.

Shiatsu massage has been used for centuries by the Chinese. It has been proved to be beneficial for treating every condition from arthritis to allergies to joint pain. While the specific benefits of this form of bodywork aren't known yet, old Chinese believe they are beneficial. Shiatsu can be used to complement conventional treatment or as an alternative treatment. Shiatsu massage has proven to have unquestionable benefits to those who've been through it. If the treatment is carried out in a clinic or at home, Shiatsu massages means finger pressure and the relaxing effects of Tai Chi.