What Is Shiatsu Massage
Shiatsu massage is one of the most common forms of alternative medicine today. It has become so popular, in reality, there are entire salons and spas offering this sort of massage as part of their routine. But where did it come from?
Shiatsu is a variation on traditional Chinese bodywork, particularly on concepts from acupuncture, that require the theory of utilizing key energy points along the meridian chain to treat and prevent disease. Shiatsu originated in Japan, where several traditional Chinese medicines were embraced and where acupuncture had significant popularity as a cure for a variety of ailments. When these two traditional Chinese medicines and practices were combined with what was already known about the effects of applying pressure to acupoints on the body, the results were something close to Shiatsu massage therapy. Shiatsu originates from a Japanese massage technique called izumi kernel komaku, or the"finger pressure therapy."
Today, most therapists trained in basic shiatsu massage will combine the two techniques into a single therapy session. However, some therapists decide to specialize in only 1 aspect of the art, such as acupressure or Swedish massage, which may seem less overwhelming and more interesting to patients. Additionally, there are therapists who are trained to perform this massage using their hands or alternative massage tools, such as rollers, fingertips, and elbow apparatus. Many therapists also learn how to perform the therapy by taking specialized courses or by purchasing a Shiatsu massage mat and table.
Today, there are dozens of different types of shiatsu massage therapy fashions. Generally, these vary on the basis of the practitioner's beliefs and tastes. Some specialize in Western or traditional styles of shiatsu massage. Many offer different methods, but all will provide some variant of the basic techniques, such as applying pressure to specific points of the body. Many therapists also use touch therapies, such as music and aromatherapy, to help relax the patient and improve the experience.
Some Shiatsu massage therapists provide a completely natural approach to treating patients, using nothing but their fingertips to soothe and relax their clients. These practitioners don't use manipulative devices, like those used by traditional therapists. Instead, they require the power of signature and finger pressure to relieve tension and stimulate the body. Though this may not be effective for everyone, it does offer some of the same advantages as traditional shiatsu massage treatment with no side effects.
Another alternative is to use acupressure, also known as acupuncture. Acupressure is the practice of stimulating specific points on the body in order to relieve pain or to encourage recovery. In the event of shiatsu massage, acupressure is applied to specific points along the meridian for a precise technique to treat the entire body. This is a popular solution for people who do not wish to expose themselves to invasive procedures and for people who are uncomfortable having needles inserted into their bodies. Acupressure also provides additional benefits, such as promoting blood circulation throughout the entire body, invigorating lymphatic systems, and even increasing the amount of endorphins in your system.
If you are interested in learning Shiatsu massage and are hesitant about its practice because of its unconventional methods, there are other choices. Besides acupressure, other alternative therapy choices include acupuncture and herbal medicine. For those who have the ability to get and tolerate acupuncture, it has been proven to help alleviate pain and has been proven to enhance overall health. Herbal medication, such as ginkgo biloba, has been shown to improve circulation, stimulate the immune system, and stimulate the flow of qi, that's the very important energy flowing throughout the body.
It should be mentioned that many practitioners of shiatsu do this therapy on a consultation basis, rather than performing the procedure on a patient's schedule. This is because they believe that the human body is able to relax faster if the treatment is performed at a more suitable time. Another reason practitioners prefer to perform shiatsu on an individual basis as opposed to on a schedule has to do with how the treatment may take several hours before a noticeable gap in flow is noticed. As a result, it can be difficult to perform shiatsu on a daily basis, especially if you've got a demanding job or are constantly traveling.
