Used as a stress reliever, Shiatsi is a type of Japanese massage. Having recurring sessions can help prevent stress in everyday life. In Shiatsi, the practitioner uses many different body parts including knees, elbows, thumbs and feet in order to place pressure on different sections of the body to find irregularites and also to fix ailments.
Shiatsu originates in ancient forms of Chinese medicine, well known massage techniques from Japan, as well as modern disciplines of physiotherapy and psychology. The word, coming from Japanese, translates as ‘finger pressure’, even though palms, thumbs, knees, feet and elbows are also used to apply pressure.
Though Shiatsu shares its origins with some well known disciplines, it differs in the way that it is practiced. The technique is based on a combination of both diagnosis and therapy in approach, though in some cases the problem may be treated without any need of prior diagnostic treatment. In modern medicine, though, there is always a diagnosis first before a specific course of treatment is recommended or approached. This is the same for traditional Chinese medicines like acupressure.
Practitioners of this form of therapy utilize the body’s natural defenses and stimulate the immune system to initiate the healing process. It requires active involvement in a seemingly non-rational, meditative state from both parties, in which the naturally occurring energy of the person being treated is used to relieve stress and initiate the body’s innate ability to heal.
Research shows that Shiatsu promises to be a stress busting and natural healing method, with many case histories demonstrating it’s effectiveness. Another important fact is that this kind of therapy needs skilled practitioners who have undergone a prescribed educational program and have the license to practice. Lot of countries around the world have noticed its benefits and have started the standardization and licensing process to promote this healing method.
A holistic approach to treatment can improve all bodily systems. The body possesses it’s own wisdom in healing, and Shiatsu can help access that wisom, allowing the body to care for itself most effectively. It can reduce stress and increase vitality and well-being through natural means. It’s whole system approach adresses issues in an integrative manner allowing each body system to best support and heal the others.
Shiatsu is a form of Japaniese Massage based in ancient Chinese medicine, as well as modern developments. Though it has its basis there, it differs from its origins in a number of ways. It is a combination of diagnosis and therapy, and in this regard shares some similarities with Chinese acupressure. The technique uses the body’s own defense mechanisms, stimulates the immune system, and restores circulation. It is a holistic technique, so it approaches the whole body and seeks to improve all of it, reduce stress, and promote general wellbeing, and has been proven effective in research.
- Robert Harrison