Shiatsu
A Therapeutic Japanese Massage
Shiatsu literally translates as finger pressure. This is a Japanese form of massage, but is based on principles borrowed from Chinese Traditional Medicine.
It was started in China 2000 years ago. Then it was known as anma. Eventually, anma made it's way to Japan. The practice of anma remained unchanged for many years. In the early 20th century, an anma practitioner, named Tamai Tempaku, started combining principles of anma with Western medicine. He started teaching his new techniques to others and changed the name of the new therapy. It was officially recognized by the Japanese government in 1964.
Though the name has changed, basic principles of Chinese Traditional Medicine are still used in this therapy.
This form of Oriental massage uses the same points as acupuncture to promote healing. Putting pressure on these points stimulates nerve endings and unblocks the body's ki/chi or life force.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TMC) there are 14 meridians that run through the body. These meridians are like pathways that carry chi through the body. Each meridian is named for an organ that it runs through. If a meridian is blocked the chi can't flow through it correctly and this will cause dysfunction in your body. This Japanese form of massage works to unblock blocked meridians so that ki/chi can flow through them freely just like acupuncture.
Many massage therapists use these principles in their practices.
Shiatsu is usually done on the floor. You lay on a thin futon mat. You remain fully clothed. It's a good idea to wear something loose fitting and comfortable.
The therapist will use his/her fingertips to apply rhythmic pressure along your meridians. The therapy shouldn't hurt. Let your therapist know if it does and he/she will adjust the pressure to your comfort level.
It is not uncommon to feel some flu like symptoms after a treatment. Drink plenty of water and take it easy and you should be fine.
This therapy can be used to treat a variety of problems. Here is a list of a few:
- back pain
- whiplash
- neck stiffness
- joint pain
- reduced mobility
- muscle injuries
There are some critics of meridian based healing therapies. Some people say it's not based in science, but I think that if it's worked for so many people for so long there must be something to it.
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