Shiatsu massage therapy is a form of bodywork that has been evolving for centuries. The practice and application of Shiatsu theory is rooted in the Asian methods of acupuncture, started over a thousand years ago in China and prevalent in all of Asia.
Shiatsu theory is based on the idea that life energy, known as chi or ki, flows through your body on established meridians or channels. The flow of this energy is essential for health and well-being, but the flow of energy can get blocked or misdirected. Stimulation of certain points on the body is believed to open up and re-establish that energy flow, which encourages the body to heal and maintain itself. Both Shiatsu theory and practice are based on the foundational premise that proper energy flow is essential for healthful living. Shiatsu asserts most health issues can be resolved by energy dealing with low blockages or problems.
Shiatsu therapy is based upon the idea that the manipulation of those stimulation points is what will readjust energy flow through the body. The Shiatsu practitioner changes the flow of energy by using finger pressure on those energy points of the body. Sometimes the practitioner may use his or her elbows, hands, thumbs or even knees to manipulate the flow of energy.
Shiatsu theory also relies on the patient performing proper self-care as part of the healing process. You will be encouraged to stretch regularly and instructed on spiritual and physical self-care techniques so you can improve the energy flow on your own. Some of the exercises used may remind you of Western exercise routines, which is one way Shiatsu is different than other traditional Asian energy flow work, such as acupuncture. The practitioner will also try to transmit healing energy to you, the patient, during the session. Shiatsu has a spiritual quality to it that differs significantly from Western exercise programs or massage, which is focused much more so on the physical aspects of the bodywork.
 | Shiatsu massage is a Japanese form of massage that applies concentrated pressure to specific areas of the body believed to correspond to the body?s natural energy lines, block in which are thought to cause illness. |
 | Westerner see the benefits of Shiatsu massage in terms of how it triggers the release of endorphins, which will reduce the experience of pain, making it a popular form of massage among those seeking pain relief, stress relief, |
Shiatsu is a form of acupressure massage, that focuses on zoning on key pressure points and tender spots in the body. When performed in a whole-body massage, shiatsu heps to relieve tension, reduce stress, increase joint and muscle flexibility, and unblock energy. |
Shiatsu is a healing art, originating in Japan, which uses the power of touch and pressure to enable each of us to contact our own self-healing abilities. In a Shiatsu session the practitioner uses pressure with thumbs, fingers, palms, and sometimes elbows, knees and feet, to induce deep relaxation and a feeling of well-being. |
The history of Shiatsu therapy harkens back to the ancient practice of acupuncture, but applies that theory of pressure point stimulation in an entirely unique manner. |
