Shiatsu-Massage

What is Shiatsu-Massage?

Shiatsu, which literally means finger pressure, is derived from an ancient form of holistic Chinese medicine that combines massage and acupressure and has been in existence for more than 2,000 years. These treatments helps to maintain and restore health by improving the flow of energy along the meridians. Meridians can best be understood as pathways for the circulation of Qi, or subtle energy, which exists in everyone.

The central concept in Oriental medicine is that all physical problems are a result of obstructions in the flow of Qi.Shiatsu-Massage uses techniques such as stretching, rocking, holding and various degrees of pressure using thumbs, palms, elbows or knees to release these obstructions.

Shiatsu-Massage, therefore, combines the knowledge of massage, which people have used for centuries to heal their aches and pains, with energy pathways that are interconnected and provides a holistic tableau for addressing mind, body, and spirit.

What to expect:

The treatment will be performed by using pressure along the meridians or specific areas of the body. Techniques such as stretching, rocking or holding an area passively can also be used.

Most of the time, treatments will be very relaxing and you will feel the tension release from the body. Some areas of the body may feel sore, tender or stiff. This is positive and usually related to the areas of the body that need attention the most. Sore areas are where the inner body is sending distress signals to the surface. By applying pressure to these areas, a positive stimulation is being sent back to the source of imbalance.

Generally, it is recommended to start with 10-12 treatments, which can be spread out over 3-4 months. In the beginning, it is possible for some people to take more than one treatment per week.

Once the body/mind becomes accustomed and more responsive to the treatments, you will recognize when stress is building up in the system and when your energy is becoming stuck. You will know on your own when it is time to receive a treatment.

This treatments are done on a futon, body cushion, and massage table with or without the recipient cloth(drape). It is best to wear loose fitting clothing and bring a fresh pair of clean cotton socks. Treatments last anywhere from 50 minutes to 1 hour. Occasionally, it can be a little bit longer depending on your needs that day or size/height of the patient.

Immediate effects:

After a treatment, you will feel more relaxed. You will notice that your breathing has become deeper and you may have the sensation that energy is flowing through the body. The emotions are calm and life situations seem to have a more balanced perspective.

Short-term results:

Receiving shiatsu helps to relieve pain in the body. It improves posture, digestion, elimination and breathing. It gives an overall sense of well-being and supports a positive attitude. If a person has had a very stressful lifestyle, they may feel the need to have a little bit more rest than usual after the first few sessions.

Long-term results:

Shiatsu helps to re-pattern the body and mind. It encourages the body and mind to develop more balanced and relaxed ways to function. The choices we start to make support a healthier lifestyle. This may include better dietary habits, going out in nature, exercise, and enjoying good quality hobbies. We also begin to appreciate and better utilize what we already have in life.

Some physical benefits of Shiatsu-Massage sessions are:

2. Regulate the activity of the autonomic nervous system.

These treatments can help to understand what is happening to our bodies. The practitioner will get in contact with the patient’s body through correct breathing and mental attitude. After this the practitioner will begin to uncover the root cause of the suffering, be it mental or physical.

The patients are encouraged to make changes in their lives in order to find the positive way of improving the quality of their life.

Among other benefits of shiatsu massage that can help with a range of stress problems and chronic conditions including:

• backache and pain

• headache

• muscular tension or stiffness

• depression or anxiety

• sports injuries

• insomnia

• exhaustion or fatigue

• digestive problems

• menstrual problems

• high blood pressure

• low immunity

• pregnancy

• children’s problems