Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a therapeutic form of massaging technique wherein finger pressure is used at various points along the meridians of the body. In fact, the term ‘Shiatsu’ is a Japanese word, which is derived from ‘Shi’, meaning fingers, and ‘Atsu’, meaning pressure. Basically it is a system of acupressure, which differs from acupuncture by the fact that no needles are used, and instead pressure is applied with the thumbs, other fingers, and also the palms, to various parts of the body. This is said to help in unblocking blockages of energy, thus re-energizing the whole system.

A Peek into the Origins of Shiatsu

It was in the early part of the 20th century that Tamai Tempaku, a Japanese practitioner, developed Shiatsu, incorporating modern medical know-how on physiology and anatomy into various ancient systems of treatment. At first, he named it ‘Shiatsu Ryoho, which means ‘healing with finer pressure’, which later was changed to ‘Shiatsu Ho’, meaning ‘finger pressure method’. Nowadays, it’s just referred to as ‘Shiatsu’. Shiatsu was given official recognition in 1964 by the Japanese government, thereby making it distinctive from Anma, the earlier type of traditional massage. The Shaitsu therapist diagnoses as well as heals, based on principles of the ancient medicinal systems of the East.

The Essential Characteristics of Shiatsu

One of the main characteristics of Shiatsu is its simplicity. It is based on the older form of massaging technique, which is known as Anma in Japan, and Tuina or Anmo in China, which incorporates pulling, pushing, tapping, kneading, stroking, and rubbing in order work the circulatory system and the muscles of the body. In Shiatsu, however, not much seems to be happening, with very few massaging techniques used. Instead a relaxed and static pressure is applied on a number of points of the body, either with the thumb, hand, or fingers, or a limb being rotated. It seems as if there is hardly any exertion involved, however, beneath the simple methods, there is a lot happening inside, with the energy system of the body being worked subtly.

In ancient Eastern traditions, the world is described in the form of energy, and everything is regarded as manifestations of a universal force, known in Japanese as ‘Ki’ and ‘Qi’ or ‘Chi’ in Chinese. Since Shiatsu has its origins in Japan, the term ‘Ki’ is the preferred word used. It is thought that the principal force of life’s substance as well as motive is Ki. Ki is usually defined as ‘energy, although it is also used for ‘breath’ in Chinese and Japanese languages. In the healing traditions of the East, the harmonization of the Ki in the body is thought to be an essential factor of health; hence, all endeavors are based on achieving this harmony of the Ki.

What are the Benefits derived from Shiatsu?

A scientific explanation for the benefits that people experience due to Shiatsu is that it provides relief to stiff and knotted muscles, alleviates stress, improves circulation and has a calming effect on a hyperactive nervous system.

Given below are some of the specific benefits that are attributed to be derived from Shiatsu sessions:

• Balances the Ki
• An improvement of blood circulation
• Soothes nervousness
• Relaxes tissues and muscles deeply
• Reduces stress
• Toxins released from the body
• Eases stiffness in the neck
• Alleviates joint pain and the resultant reduced mobility
• Relieves headaches and back pain
• Alleviated injuries from sports
• Prevents ailment
• Alleviates blood pressure
• Increases flexibility
• Alleviates anxiety
• Enhances spiritual and mental awareness
• Feels very soothing and relaxing