Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu also known as acupressure, is a finger pressure massage technique. that is sometimes confused with acupuncture. Shiatsu massage therapy and acupuncture are founded on the Chinese meridian system. The therapist applies pressure with his thumbs, finger, and palms to specific areas of the client's body that have been determined during an assessment period prior to the massage session. There are no needle pokes involved with Shiatsu. Massage techniques like tapping, squeezing, rubbing, and applied pressure are applied along the meridians to unblock energy blockages and reintroduce the optimal flow of ki.
	Benefits of Shiatsu Massage Deep muscle and tissue relaxation Stress reduction and management Releases toxins from the body Dis-ease preventative Increased flexibility Improved blood circulations Reduces blood pressure Reduces mental anxieties Balances ki (chi) Calms nervousness Increases mental and spiritual awareness It feels good!
Shiatsu is an old, traditional, Japanese healing method. Shiatsu means “finger pressure.” But unlike the massages of the West, where kneading and friction is used, in shiatsu pressure and stretching is the key. The shiatsu practitioner uses palms, fingers, thumbs, knuckles, elbows, knees and the feet, to work on the body’s accupucture points, along what they consider the body’s meridians or energy channels. Its a form of “touch communication,” and is a safe and effective preventive medicine. It helps to balance a persons energy flow, and strengthen the vital organs.
	Shiatsu treatments are given for a variety of ailments, from respiratory problem, to digestive problems, to headaches and leg cramps, and can bring relief to a number of everyday disorders. And today, shiatsu is gaining popularity in the West, and is practiced in America and Europe.
When visiting a practitioner of shiatsu massage, wear thin, loose, comfortable clothing, such as cotton or linen. Be prepared to tell the masseuse what you would like worked on. If you have headaches, try to remember if they occur in the morning, after eating spicy food, reading for a long time, or vigorous exercise. Make sure to inform the masseuse of any westernized medical treatment you are receiving, as well.
	Most people enjoy shiatsu massage as much as they enjoy deep tissue massage, but expect some differences. Shiatsu will involve deep breathing, rotating and stretching your joints, as well as manipulating pressure points. When these points are pressed, people describe the sensation as feeling tender, tickling, intense, or slightly uncomfortable, unlike anything else. After the massage, you may feel strange, but not sore as in a muscular tissue massage. Many believe Shiatsu is both preventative and healing, so getting it done on a regular basis, along with stretching, exercise, and a healthy diet, may improve your health.