Shiatsu Message Technique

"Shiatsu which in Japanese is shi meaning finger and atsu meaning pressure. A traditional Japanese healing therapy that uses hands-on pressure applied with thumbs, fingers, palms, elbows and even knees. Pressure is applied to the same energy meridians as those used for acupressure. Various forms of stretching and joint rotation is incorporated into Shiatsu."

 

The additional use of techniques such as rolling, brushing, vibrating and grasping is also incorporated in Shiatsu. Pressure is also sometimes applied by the use of one's feet on the person's back, legs and feet.

This is combined with stretches, joint rotations and joint manipulation to give an all-over treatment, which aims at treating the patient on a holistic level.

What is the aim of Shiatsu?

The rebalancing of the flow of energy referred to as Ki, along the meridians points or channels of one's body. It is a deeply relaxing experience is a great assistance in preventing the buildup of stress.

To ascertain which technique to use the practitioner starts by doing an examination of the patients pulse, tongue, face, hara or stomach area and the spinal column.

Usually a treatment takes around an hour and is carried out fully clothed. The patient lays down or sits on a futon mat on the floor while the treatment is applied.

Touching the body surface uses points known as Tsubo to activate the meridians. Examining for excessive - Jitsu or deficient - Kyo energy within the bodies meridians points.

Ailments and conditions that are treated with Shiatsu are:

• back pain
• headaches
• whiplash
• neck stiffness
• joint pain
• reduced mobility
• menstrual problems
• digestive problems
• asthmatic symptoms
• sports injuries
• depression and stress