Shiatsu means literally ‘finger pressure’ but that’s not all there is to it. Working on meridians in the body, a practitioner can affect internal organs and re-balance well-being. It doesn’t involve massage or taking clothes off. The shiatsu practitioner will assess and focus on particular pressure points on the body that relate to your condition.
Shiatsu is an ancient Chinese technique or applying pressure to the body in order to create well-being. Its principles lie in both medical philosophy and practice. Originated in 530BC and later in Japan, Southeast Asia and Korea practiced it widely. By the 20th century, shiatsu as a therapy could treat muscular conditions and licenses became available for practitioners. By the 70′s, shiatsu was increasingly popular in the USA, Europe and Australia.
A Shiatsu session can last forty-five minutes to an hour depending on the treatment and the condition. Traditionally it is performed on a padded mat on the floor but those who are pregnant or elderly can lie on a padded couch. Depending on the condition being treated, the session may begin with gentle stretching to stimulate the flow of energy and relax the body. Pressure may be applied but it is not designed to be painful and should not hurt. Although shiatsu can treat many conditions and ailments, the following have good results from shiatsu.
Shiatsu for Pregnancy
There are not many therapies that can be performed during pregnancy due to immobility and oils that may be used that could be harmful to the unborn child. Shiatsu uses pressure points to re-balance conditions such as leg cramps, depression, insomnia, morning sickness and help in turning babies that are in the upside-down breach position. The process is very relaxing and allows the flow of energy in the body to heal itself.
Shiatsu for Skin
Shiatsu is exceptionally good for improving circulatory problems as it helps the blood flow around the body giving the feel and ‘glow’ of healthy skin. By applying pressure onto certain parts of the body not only are the muscles manipulated by the skin’s tissues are massaged allowing toxins to be extracted through the skin, clearing pores and oil glands to keep the skin healthy.
Shiatsu for Migraines
Migraines or severe tension headaches are usually caused by diet, in particular foods such as cheese, chocolate and caffeine products. They are also caused by weather changes, stress and sometimes strenuous activities. Symptoms are commonly nausea, sensitivity to light, experiencing an unpleasant taste in the mouth and sometimes vomiting. More women than men experience migraines and is thought to be more genetic than a modern day stress related illness. Treatments are usually conventional painkillers but don’t cure the migraines altogether. Shiatsu on the other hand can help relax the body and increase circulation, helping the body deal with the migraine when it occurs or until the cause can be discovered.
Shiatsu for Arthritis
Shiatsu helps arthritic and muscular conditions as the pressure applied to the joints can help relax the muscles, improve blood circulation and relieve pain. Treatment needs to be on-going but can offer a much needed temporary relief to sufferers.
Shiatsu for Digestive System
Shiatsu can help digestive problems by gentle pressure to the affected area. Applying pressure with your middle finger to a point just below the lowest rib can help relieve bloating. Even pressure applied to a certain point on the foot, above the second toe can affect areas in the body that aid digestion.
Shiatsu should be performed by a licensed practitioner for the best effects, but once the techniques are learnt it can be done quite effectively at home. Many ailments and conditions can be be treated by this method but may only offer temporary relief.
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