This finger pressure technique is sometimes confused with the acupuncture, but has nothing to do with needle pokes. Shiatsu massage a.k.a acupressure feels more like applying pressure and tapping along the Meridians to unblock energy blockages and reintroduce the optimal flow of chi.
History of Shiatsu massage
Shiatsu originated in Japan. The term itself was first used in a book published in 1915, Tenpaku Temai's Shiatsu Ryōhō.
In 1940 Tokujiro Namikoshi founded the Japan Shiatsu College. He systematized a form of Shiatsu therapy based more on Western anatomy than traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine. In Japan, Namikoshi's system enjoys special legal status; the story is told that at the age of seven, he developed a technique of pressing using his thumbs and palms as he tried to nurse his mother who suffered from rheumatoid arthritis.
The 'founder' himself treated many high profile persons such as politicians, as well as celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Muhammad Ali. This way, Shiatsu massage became known not only in Japan but also abroad.
Shiatsu styles
Namikoshi's system is referred as derivative shiatsu.
Tadashi Izawa established Meridian Shiatsu, incorporating Meridian Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine into his Shiatsu therapy.
Zen shiatsu is the one that is most popular in North America and Europe: Zen shiatsu may be strenuous, adding yoga-like stretches to help open the Meridians. Professionals who practice this technique apply heavy pressure, using their full body weight when they press the points. Therefore this technique isn't an at-home technique.
Tao Shiatsu is a form of shiatsu, which involves concentrating the mind and making supplications to the Buddha. It was introduced by Ryukyu Endo, a Buddhist priest.
In barefoot shiatsu feet are used to rub and press the points. Practitioners say this method delivers even more pressure.
What is shiatsu massage and how is performed?
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage. It is often confused with acupuncture and actually has some similarities. Just like acupuncture, shiatsu massage is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine. It is thought that illness is a result of imbalances in the natural flow of energy through the body. Therefore shiatsu therapists use finger and palm pressure to energetic pathways, called Meridians to improve the flow of energy. When energy flows freely, chi brings fresh and strong energy, while carrying away energy that was spent, or in other words: blocked chi must be cleaned and restored.
Shiatsu massage unifies spiritual, philosophical, and medical aspects of the body, while some western massage techniques, as mentioned before, are combined with the view that energy circulates along channels or popular called in shiatsu massage: Meridians. There are fourteen Meridians running the length of your body. Two Meridians are central, driving chi through your torso. First is the Governor, which is along your back, and second is the Conception, which is down your front. Other twelve Meridians are: stomach, small and large intestine, spleen/pancreas, liver, gall bladder, kidneys, bladder, heart, lungs, sex, and triple heater. They occur in the mirrored pairs along the symmetric halves of your body. These Meridians both control your organs and are also associated with the function and symbolism of each organ.
During shiatsu massage therapists applied pressure using fingers, thumbs and palms in a continuous rhythmic sequence. Pressure feels localized: certain pressure points may feel tender, but people usually describe it as good pain.
First the therapists will make the diagnosis, she or he will ask you if you have any specific ailments. Then gentle massage on pressure points that run along Meridians will be done in order to see which pressure points are stiff or tender. When diagnosing your problems areas, the therapists will continue with shiatsu massage. When visiting a practitioner of shiatsu massage, expect to lie on low massage table or on the floor. It is important to tell the the therapists what you would like to be worked on- what is your problem. Also inform him or her if you are receiving any westernized medical treatment. Unlike other forms of massage, with shiatsu no massage oil is applied, so you remain fully clothed during the treatment. Therefore wear comfortable clothing.
Benefits of shiatsu massage
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Relieves Stress and Tension
The pressure applied during a Shiatsu massage stimulates the body's natural relaxation response. It can help reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol. As the body relaxes, mental stress and anxiety also diminish. -
Improves Blood Circulation
The pressure and stretching movements in Shiatsu promote better blood flow. Improved circulation can aid in the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to cells, leading to better overall health and faster healing. -
Boosts the Immune System
Regular Shiatsu massage can help stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a key role in immunity. This can help the body better fend off illnesses and infections. -
Reduces Muscle Stiffness and Pain
Shiatsu targets specific pressure points and areas of tension in the muscles. By doing so, it can help release tightness, alleviate pain, and improve mobility. -
Improves Digestion
Shiatsu techniques can stimulate the digestive system, promoting better digestion and helping to address issues such as constipation or indigestion. -
Enhances Skin Health
With improved circulation from Shiatsu, there's better oxygenation and nutrient delivery to skin cells. This can promote healthier-looking skin and might even aid in the healing of skin conditions. -
Helps in Balancing Energy (Qi)
Shiatsu is deeply rooted in the concepts of traditional Chinese medicine, particularly the balancing of Qi (or energy). By working on meridians and pressure points, Shiatsu aims to rebalance the body’s energy flow. -
Reduces Headaches
By relieving tension in the muscles, especially in the neck and head, and by balancing the body's energy, Shiatsu can help in reducing the frequency and severity of headaches. -
Improves Sleep Quality
The relaxation effects of Shiatsu can help improve sleep patterns. A relaxed body and mind can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep. -
Assists in Hormonal Balance
Shiatsu can influence the endocrine system, which controls hormone production. This can be beneficial for issues like menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms, or even mood swings. -
Facilitates Emotional Release
The touch and pressure of Shiatsu can act as a form of emotional therapy, allowing clients to release pent-up emotions or traumas. Many individuals feel a sense of emotional relief after a session.
Shiatsu is used for following conditions:
- relaxation
- depression
- recovery from injuries
- back pain
- neck and shoulder pain
- headache
- premenstrual syndrome
- anxiety
- tiredness
- insomnia
- stress
- arthritis pain
- constipation
- poor digestion
However, certain type of people/ patients should not use shiatsu massage. People with open wounds, infectious skin disease or rash should not apply shiatsu massage; shiatsu shouldn't also be applied over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures. Patients right after surgery or right after chemotherapy or radiation (unless recommended by your doctor) shouldn't use shiatsu massage. People with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before having shiatsu. People having problems with blood clots should avoid using shiatsu massage, because there is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. People with heart disease and pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting any type of massage or bodywork.