e vast array of alternative therapies today mean there is more choice for the health consumer. Most are regulated and can be enjoyed at home, administered by the individual or for more intense cases by a practitioner. A Japanese method, Shiatsu can be an effective physical therapy.
Definition of Shiatsu?
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 wil assess and focus on particular pressure points on the body that relate to your condition. So for leg cramps the practitioner may work on the ankles and points either side of the knee by pressing down on the point for several minutes, connecting with the body.
Who Is Shiatsu For?
Shiatsu is for all ages and most conditions, it is particularly beneficial for those with musculoskeletal disorders, stress and even in conjunction with giving up smoking programs. It can help adults with depression, back pains, diabetes and even cancer pains. For babies and children, a mild pressure is applied to treat attention deficit disorder to re-balance chemical imbalances in the brain. For the elderly, arthritis and joint problems can be treated, although it isn’t a cure, the effects are often temporary relief rather than long-term.
A Typical Shiatsu Session
A typical session could last for forty-five minutes to an hour. The first session will be an assessment to discover medical history, any allergies and feeding and sleeping habits. The practitioner is looking to build the bigger picture so that they can decide on which meridians to offer treatment . Some practitioners can assess the meridians by touch alone whilst others check pulses and assess the patient’s tongue to look for imbalances.
The meridians to be addressed may be affecting the body in many ways. For example a patient with breathing problems may have their lung meridian addressed. Their arm would be moved up and down to see how it reacts in relation to posture and how it affected them. The practitioner could decide which meridian is imbalanced and which ones were balanced enough to be left alone. As the patient lies on the floor, the practitioner can use different parts of their body to apply pressure, usually the fingers and thumbs but elbows and palms can offer heavier pressure.
How Long Does It Take To Treat A Condition?
A practitioner will usually suggest a length of time for the sessions and how many are required. Most will suggest between six to eight sessions as it can take a few sessions to get the meridians used to the pressure and to relax, ready for treatment.
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