This guide is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of Shiatsu Massage, including:
Shiatsu Massage is a therapeutic bodywork that originated in Japan. It is a combination of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and contemporary physiological theory. Modern Shiatsu combines TCM with other forms of therapy, and aims to amplify the body’s ability to heal itself. Like other massage techniques, Shiatsu Massage therapists use fingers, thumbs, elbows, and palms to apply pressure to different areas of the body. As with TCM massage, Shiatsu follows the principles of Qi (energy) and meridian flow around the body, working with these elements and acupressure points to heal the body. ‘Shiatsu’ translates to ‘finger pressure’, and can have both preventive and remedial effects. Other therapies are commonly used in conjunction with Shiatsu, such as Acupuncture, dietician work, and herbal remedies.
The theory behind Shiatsu is that when a patient has poor physical health, their mental and emotional state can also be affected. This cycle can work any way, as all three (mental, emotional, and physical) work in harmony. Therefore, all areas must be involved to wholly heal the body.
Shiatsu therapists apply pressure to acupressure points in the body, to increase energy flow and correct imbalances. As with any massage, the pressure applied to the muscles releases toxins, relieves tension, and realigns any problem areas. It also focuses on the Qi of a patient, as the flow of Qi through meridian channels helps to heal the body.
Shiatsu Massage has evolved since its creation, and different styles exist. These can include an extra focus on meditation, dietary guidance, water Shiatsu, Acupuncture, and breathing techniques. All Shiatsu styles use similar massage techniques, including:
Applying pressure along or against muscles releases a build-up of toxins within the body. Used in many massage techniques, pressure helps a therapist identify problem areas, and re-aligns muscles in a healthy manner. In shiatsu, pressure also removes blockages along the meridians, allowing the Qi to resume a proper flow, which benefits the entire body.
The thumbs, fingers, and heel of palms are used to repetitively knead muscles in a slow motion – similar to the motion of kneading bread. This helps to relieve any tension in the muscles and makes them more pliable. The repetitive motion also works out knots, and breaks down scar tissue.
Quick finger tapping stimulates muscles, particularly in tender areas such as the face. The same technique can be used with fists for larger areas, like the back or glutes. This helps to engage sluggish muscles and improves nerve function. It also helps a patient identify muscles that may be more dormant.
The benefits of Shiatsu are wide-ranging, and include:
Shiatsu Massage is used to treat a range of ailments, including the following:
Like other massages, Shiatsu Massage involves varying levels of pressure on a patient’s muscles, and this can cause different levels of discomfort. If a patient has never had one of these massages before, this discomfort can be confronting. It utilises a nurturing touch philosophy (gentler than others), so any pain experienced should be the ‘good’ type of pain, such as the feeling of tension leaving the body. Unlike other massage techniques, it does not use oil, and therapists instead work through the patient’s clothing. This can cause a feeling of extra stimulation or tingling, as the skin is being worked with more vigour. A patient should leave a massage session feeling more relaxed, and more energised.
During the session, the patient may also experience a build-up or release of emotions. Shiatsu is designed to heal the mental and emotional state, as well as the physical, and this may feel overwhelming during the session. Remembering to focus on breathing patterns during a massage is a good way to alleviate this feeling, as is asking the therapist if you can take a quick break.
Choosing a Shiatsu Massage therapist can be challenging, especially if you have never received the treatment before.
Here are some guidelines to follow:
Once you’ve found a potential Shiatsu Massage therapist, it’s worth asking them the following questions to ensure they are credible and a good fit for you.
Knowing what to expect from your first appointment is helpful, as it does differ from other massages. Things to know before your first session include: