What
is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is therapeutic bodywork from Japan based on principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine
combined with modern anatomy and physiology. It is one of the main modalities within the larger profession of Asian Bodywork
Therapy. Shiatsu is non-invasive, performed without oils through light, comfortable clothing, and uses soothing, kneading,
pressing, tapping and stretching techniques.
Shiatsu
stimulates and harmonizes the flow of “Qi” (vital energy) throughout the body and has both preventative and remedial
effects.
It is beneficial for a wide range of internal, musculoskeletal
and emotional conditions. It may be stimulating or calming depending on what is therapeutically indicated. Shiatsu therapy
reduces stress and contributes to overall well-being.
Characteristics of Shiatsu Therapy
Shiatsu applies manual and digital pressure to the skin with the aim of preventing illness by stimulating the body’s
natural powers of recuperation, eliminating fatigue-producing elements, and promoting general good health. The following are
its major characteristics.
·
Assessment and therapy combined. Each application of Shiatsu pressure is an assessment enabling the practitioner
to treat according to the body’s conditions. The hands and fingers of the trained practitioner are sensitive enough
to detect abnormalities in the skin, muscles or body heat on contact and thus to pinpoint irregularities and determine at
once which basic treatment to employ.
·
Using only the hands and fingers. Shiatsu calls on the assistance of no mechanical devices or medicines.
· No lasting side
effects. Since the points to be treated, pressure and length of application are gauged according to the goal; treatment is
accompanied by almost no unpleasantness and produces no such side effects as lasting muscular pain.
· No age limits. Shiatsu can be
used on people of all ages ranging from young children to the elderly. In the young, it helps strengthen the body; and in
adults and people in middles age, it prevents so-called adult diseases and aging.
· Shiatsu is a health barometer. Regular Shiatsu
helps detect bodily irregularities and prevents the accumulation of fatigue and the occurrence of illness.
· Deepens trust and
reliance between the patient and the practitioner. The intent of the practitioner to improve recipient’s state of being
and the recipient’s trust in the care combine and interact to increase the effectiveness of the application.
· Shiatsu is effective
because it treats the whole body. Localized application may have temporary effects. The only way to initiate improvement is
first to treat the entire body and then to deal with localities showing pathological symptoms. This, the Shiatsu way, always
proves effective.
Benefits of Shiatsu Therapy
· Reduces
stress and fatigue that accumulate in the body (tsubos)
·
Reduces blood pressure
·
Relieves muscle stiffness and tension
·
Increases the circulation of body fluids (blood and lymph)
· Increases vitality, stamina and
energy
·
Regulates the autonomic nervous system
· Regulates hormonal secretion
· Stimulates the function
of internal organs
·
Stimulates and regulates digestion
·
Stimulates skin
·
“Stirs up” connective tissue – makes a more fluid environment
· Boosts the immune
system
·
Helps to prevent illness and injury