Guide To Shiatsu

What Is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a Japanese word that literally means 'Finger Pressure' as this is the main technique that is used. Shiatsu could probably best be thought of as a combination of Acupressure and Massage. Like the ancient Chinese art of acupressure, Shiatsu works on the flow of Chi, also known as Ki or 'Life Energy', that circulates throughout the body in specific channels or 'Meridians'. By promoting the steady flow of Ki and rebalancing where it is either excessive or deficient, health is said to be increased and health problems alleviated.

Who Can Shiatsu Help?

It is said that most people can benefit from Shiatsu. Practitioners claim that a wide variety of everyday ailments can be helped or relieved by treatments. Symptoms that are said to be helped include Headaches, Migrane, Back Pain, Toothache, Stress, Tension, Depresson, Insomnia and Tension. The comfort and mobility of muscles and joints plus sports injuries have responded well to Shiatsu. It also tones up the immune system and circulation.

What Does Shiatsu Involve?

A session of Shiatsu is usually given with the recipient laying on a futon or mat on the floor. The recipient remains clothed, although the wearing of a single loose layer is advised, to allow the Ki to flow freely between the therapist and the recipient.