Shiatsu

Shiatsu therapy originated in china some 2000 thousands year ago and has its roots in Oriental traditional medicine. Shiatsu is a combination of two Japanese words shi and atsu, which means finger and pressure respectively. It is a hands-on-therapy.   A client taking shiatsu need not take his clothes off. The Japanese developed shiatsu using the knowledge of anma and acupuncture, acquired from the Chinese culture. Shiatsu works on the principle of application of pressure. Approach of this therapy is similar to that of acupuncture and acupressure i.e. it makes use energy channels – meridians and pressure points – tsubo but shiatsu does not uses needles. There are twelve main meridians in human body and each meridian is named after the body organ it is associated with. The therapist applies pressure on the pressure points using his fingers and thumbs, some times he may apply pressure on the wider areas from the pressure points, and for this he may use his palms, knees, feet and elbows. The energy flowing through the meridians is called chi, it is invisible. The pressure applied depends upon the need of the client. Apart from the pressure the therapist also uses gentle stretch, manipulation techniques and tight holding techniques.  Shiatsu aims at maintaining and promoting health by stimulating the immune system. Each shiatsu session lasts is of 40 to 60 minutes and is taken on a padded mat on the floor. The therapist may start by talking to the client regarding the problem that is to be addressed.

Modern shiatsu is a mixture of ancient and modern approaches. It includes pressing, hooking, sweeping, shaking, rotating, grasping, vibrating, patting, plucking, lifting, pinching, rolling, brushing. In one modern variation of shiatsu called barefoot shiatsu, it involves walking barefoot on the client’s back. Shiatsu is helpful for restoring the functions of nervous and circulatory systems, musculoskeletal structures and internal organs, relaxes mind and body, restores and balances energy in the body, eases tension and stiffness, improves breathing and posture. Shiatsu is effective in curing common conditions like back ache, head ache, migraine, menstrual and digestive problems, joint pain etc. Client experiences a deep relaxation and regular sessions help to prevent stress.