Shiatsu is one of the oldest forms of massage therapy. Although, it is a distinctly Japanese massage therapy, its roots can be traced back to China. The basis of shiatsu is using acupressure points. Shiatsu views the body holistically. According to these principles, energy is thought to flow through the body. This massage therapy detects blockages of energy flow and seeks to release these blockages in the body.
There are some similarities between shiatsu and acupressure. The difference mainly lies in the placement of the massage. Acupressure is mainly performed over the acu-pressure point. In the case of shiatsu, the massage will extend over a greater range and extend beyond just the acupoints.
Shiatsu also targets relief of muscles and soft tissue areas. An invigorating type of tapping action is used to enhance blood circulation in loosening up the muscles. Also, gradual pressure is also used especially in the acupressure points. This increasing pressure uses a rhythmical movement helps to release tension.
Both shiatsu and acupressure follow the principles regarding the energy flow through the body. This is common practice in many diverse Oriental medicines. There is a common belief in a life energy force which permeates throughout the body. Conflicts with this energy cause turmoil in the body.
Shiatsu massage therapy soothes and relieves the muscles. The practice of shiatsu massage teaches that energy flows throughout the body. It is thought that this energy can become blocked in the body. When this occurs, the body is out of balance. Targeting these areas of blocked energy is central to shiatsu massage.
Shiatsu uses a compression or holding massage. This is simply using the hands to hold around a given muscle or part of the body. Hands provide both touch and warm. This gentle squeeze it is done to initiate the healing process in the body.
Shiatsu has modernized with the times. Traditional shiatsu is very specific in its application. Many modern practitioners also include other types of movements such as vibration, grasping, and shaking. These have been integrated with many of the traditional practices.
It will be interesting to see how many of these different massage techniques such as shiatsu evolve in the future. Massage therapists have the ability to learn techniques from all over the world. These practitioners will continue to experiment and blend techniques.
Shiatsu is been commonly used by massage practitioners around the world. It has become an alternative form of therapy under traditional medicine. It is fairly common to find shiatsu as one of the specialties of masseuses in different parts of the world.
Technology is also having an impact on shiatsu massage therapy. Massage chairs are being programmed to perform different aspects of shiatsu massage. These shiatsu massage chairs can perform many of the same elements of shiatsu. The mechanical replication of hand movements is quite extraordinary.
Shiatsu is generally an invigorating type of massage. The acupressure points are stimulated with increasing pressure. The areas around the acupressure points are also massaged. Areas of energy blockage are identified and therapy is applied to restore balance. As with most traditional therapy approaches the body is looked at holistically.
The amazing variety of subtle relationships that combine to make shiatsu massage is very interesting. The use of acupressure points and soothing major muscle groups provides for a very effective in relieving massage. The popularity of shiatsu is a testament to its restorative potential.
Discover more information about Shiatsu Massage Chairs and other related products as seen on tv. Get a health massage chair to relax and release the tension in your body. Omega brings you the best quality and the strongest massage for years of trouble-free enjoyment. |