Shiatsu, which literally means ‘finger pressure’, is a style of Japanese massage that developed in the 1300s. Massage therapists use pressure to rebalance the energy of the body. Their aim is to align the mind, body and spirit using traditional methods and massage along the body’s energy channels. Read more to learn all about shiatsu.
The massage therapist will make a diagnosis of the client using yin and yang, the five elements and their qi (energy). They will then be able to determine what channels will be treated.
What happens in a shiatsu massage?
Shiatsu is performed on a futon or on a table. The client does not need to remove their clothing because there are no massage oils or lotions used in the treatment. Shiatsu techniques include massage with fingers, thumbs, feet and palms; stretching; and joint manipulation and mobilisation. The techniques also include holding, and most famously, leaning body weight into various points along the body.
According to the founder of Shiatsu therapy, Tokujiro Namikoshi, the underlying principal of shiatsu is that the body can fix itself once the qi is balanced. Therefore the massage helps improve all systems of the body and overall health.
The energetic channels throughout the body are called meridians. These are from Traditional Chinese Medicine. The twelve meridians are: Lung, Large Intestine, Stomach, Spleen, Heart, Small Intestine, Bladder, Kidney, Heart Protector, Triple Heater, Gall Bladder and Liver.[1]
Techniques Used
The techniques used in shiatsu are; qi (energy), yin and yang (balance); the 5 elements (metal, water, wood, fire, earth), meridians, acupressure points, stretching, pressing, touch, massage, tongue and pulse diagnostics.
When would you seek this practitioner?
Shiatsu is good for treating musculoskeletal pain and tension including headaches, back pain, arthritis, muscle stiffness, sports injuries. While also aiding relaxation, asthma, insomnia, anxiety, depression, sleeping disorders, and improving menstrual, digestive and pregnancy problems.
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