Shiatsu Massage

By Free Massage Therapists Listing

Shiatsu massage is a traditional hands-on therapy that originated in Japan. The word Shiatsu is derived from the Japanese word shi, meaning finger, and atsu, meaning pressure. Shiatsu is also known as acupressure. Acupressure is a finger pressure massage technique. It is often confused with Acupuncture because both techniques were founded on the Chinese meridian system. The massage therapist will apply pressure with their thumbs, fingers, and palms to specific areas of the body that have been pre-determined in the pre-massage consultation. Tapping, squeezing, rubbing, and applying pressure to various meridians in the body are techniques used to increase energy flow within the body.

During the pre-massage consultation, the therapist will ask questions regarding problem areas of the body. The masseuse will then do light massage in certain areas to find which pressure points are stiff or tender. These are the points that will then be concentrated on during the Shiatsu massage itself. Shiatsu will involve deep breathing, rotating and stretching your joints, as well as manipulating pressure points. The pressure is much more localized than other forms of massage. Shiatsu massages can be great for the skin. The acupressure helps to stimulate circulation in the capillaries of the tissue. It also can stimulate the secretion of sebaceous glands which helps keep skin moist and smooth. Rheumatoid Arthritis is greatly benefitted by Shiatsu massage. Applying pressure to the hands and feet are the most effective areas for arthritis relief. Migraine headaches are caused by rapid widening and narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain or head causing pain. Shiatsu massage can help by relaxing the body and increasing the blood flow and circulation throughout the entire body. Shiatsu also has the ability to induce labor in women who are past their due date. It is not however recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy due to the acupressure's ability to stimulate uterine contractions. Shiatsu massage can also assist in digestive ailments by increasing circulation. It can also aid in the elimination of waste products. The technique of Shiatsu is essentially manipulating your body back into a natural and healthy state utilizing energy pathways.

Using the acupressure can break up the stagnant energy meridians allowing fresh energy to circulate through the body and carry away the toxins. Shiatsu Massage involves viewing the entire body as a whole. The pre-massage consultation is a key part in determining what areas need to be worked on in order to unlock the flow of energy that lives within the body.