Shiatsu Massage

A Shiatsu massage originates from Japan and it is analogy to Chinese acupressure. The philosophy behind shiatsu says that there are two opposite energies in our body, Ying (negative) and Yang (positive). It believes that disequilibrium of those energies causes some parts of our bodies deplete or exasperate and induce illnesses. A therapist uses fingers, thumbs, knuckles, palms, elbows, knees and feet to apply pressure and to stimulate acupuncture points of the body in order to relief and to stimulate energetic pathways called meridians. By applying pressure along the meridians our inner energy called Chi is restored to its optimal condition and brings in the fresh energy and carries out toxins.

We can find 14 meridians on the human body. Two of them are central, one along the back and the second one along down front. The other 12 are stomach, kidneys, small and large intestine, heart, spleen/pancreas, liver, bladder, gall bladder, lungs, sex, and triple heater. They are situated along the human body in the mirrored pairs. Meridians are directly connected with specific organs and they control and affect their proper function.

Even though Shiatsu massage is often mistaken for acupuncture because of its similarities, it has nothing to do with needle pokes. Therapy can affect our body and spirit in many different ways. It offers benefits to people who suffer from different pains or illnesses. It calms an exasperated nervous system, alleviates stress, improves circulation and relieves firm muscles. It supports release of the toxins, deep tissue and muscle relocation, blood circulation, mental and spiritual privity, stress reduction and disease prevention. It has reducing effects on blood pressure, mental anxieties and nervosity. It increases flexibility and balance.
It is used to prevent anxiety, fatigue, depression, stress, insomnia, headache, digestion problems, arthritis pain. It is also good for back, neck and shoulder pain and for injuries recovery.

If you have problems with your heart, with dislodged blood clots, osteoporosis or if you are pregnant you should consult your doctor before you undertake shiatsu therapy.

If you decide to try this therapy you should know that you will be expected to wear loose and comfortable clothes as shiatsu massage is made without any oils. The therapist might also ask you about some of your specific health conditions to find out at which part of your body should be the massage aimed. It is good if you interact with your therapist to get the most out of it.