Shiatsu (Japanese from shi, meaning finger, and atsu, meaning pressure) is a traditional hands-on therapy that originated in Japan. Shiatsu is regulated as a licensed medical therapy in Japan by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, and elsewhere by various governing bodies set up by Shiatsu practitioners.

The official definition put out by the Japanese medical department of the Ministry of Welfare (current Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare) in December 1957 is “Shiatsu technique refers to the use of fingers and palm of one’s hand to apply pressure to particular sections on the surface of the body for the purpose of correcting the imbalances of the body, and for maintaining and promoting health. It is also a method contributing to the healing of specific illnesses. ”

Shiatsu is an evolving form, and its various styles incorporate (to differing degrees) aspects of Japanese massage traditions, Chinese Medicine practice, and “Western” anatomy and physiology.

Ever since Shiatsu massage therapy was introduced to the western world, millions of people have benefited from it. It is now popular worldwide and if you are reading this, you are probably interested to try it too.

But first, let’s see how Shiatsu massage can benefit you.

Philosophy of Shiatsu Massage Therapy

Shiatsu adheres to the philosophy that in order to have healthy benefits, the vital energy, ‘ki’ (Japanese) or ‘qi’ (Chinese), should flow through the entire body along its meridians (a series of pathways).

Other oriental health massage or therapy practices, like the acupuncture, also use the same principle of meridians, believing that blocking them stops the free flow of energy, which in turn may produce symptoms of diseases.

Application of Shiatsu Techniques

In Shiatsu massage, pressure is applied using the palms of the hand to unblock trouble spots throughout the body and allow the vital energy to flow freely. The body is stretched and manipulated to relieve pain points.

Shiatsu massage is applied with you in a lying down position, usually on a padded mat, at a floor level, or on a couch. If not, a Shiatsu massage chair may be used, which are becoming increasing popular because its convenience.

Shiatsu techniques include dynamic rotation, pressing of the palm and applying gentle pressure on the elbows, knee and the feet. Shiatsu massage is performed on you while you are fully clothed and does not use any massaging oils.

A typical massage session lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. The first session is usually longer since the Shiatsu therapist will need to know about your medical history, lifestyle and other health information. Follow up or subsequent massage sessions are typically shorter than the initial visit.

A normal Shiatsu massage course would take 6 to 10 sessions. However, some people prefer to continue their long after their initial condition is gone to enjoy the benefits of deep relaxation.

Shiatsu Therapy Styles

The Shiatsu practitioners often apply different treatment styles. These include:

• Tsubo therapy focuses on the pressure points and uses needles, electrical devices, massage, and moxa, which is derived from an herbal plant and is believed to prevent and treat diseases via heat application.
• Namikoshi Shiatsu is another style that puts more emphasis on the physical techniques like rubbing specific body areas and applying pressure to help the healing process.
• Zen Shiatsu, is the third styles, which as opposed to other styles that focus on particular points, concentrates on the entire meridian system and is performed with both hands.

Who Benefits from Shiatsu Massage Therapy?

It is believed that this type therapy can help people suffering from migraines, arthritis, joint problems, muscular pain, stress, chronic fatigue, digestive and skin disorders. Currently there is little evidence to support the use of Shiatsu in the treatment of any diseases or disorders.

Results You can Expect After Shiatsu Therapy

After a massage session, most people feel rejuvenated with a new sense of energy that is at higher level than before. You should also feel more relaxed and experience more flexibility and mobility in your joints. Some amount of muscle soreness and mild headaches are normal side effects but should disappear after a few hours of rest.

Shiatsu massage therapy is safe as long as a qualified practitioner or therapist only performs it. It is deeply relaxing and releases the tension throughout the body, which can be very soothing when you’ve had a rough day.