Buried in the roots of ancient Traditions of Eastern Healing and Philosophy Shiatsu has developed over time from Ancient forms Anma massage in Japan and Tui na massage in China Shiatsu means finger pressure in Japanese
Based on the foundations of Traditional Chinese Medicine Shiatsu is also known as “Acupuncture without needles”
Chinese Medicine suggests we all have a life force or Qi which regulates Physical, Emotional, Mental and spiritual stability.
Shiatsu aims to promote the process of self healing and personal awareness by balancing the circulation of this Qi.
The holistic well-being of a person depends on the harmonic flow of this Qi .This flow of Qi can be disturbed either through external trauma, such as injury, or internal trauma such as emotional issues like depression or stress
When this happens aches and pains manifest on a physical level and we experience a state of Dis- Ease.
How does it work?
Physical touch is used to assess the distribution of Qi throughout the body and to correct any imbalances. This is done by pressing, hooking, sweeping, rocking, patting, lifting, plucking lifting, rolling, brushing. It also involves gentle stretch and manipulation techniques.This improves flexibility and the flow of Qi around the body
Done by a Shiatsu Practitioner with the appropriate training, Shiatsu is a complimentary health therapy which promotes self–healing and a general sense of well – being and involves the stimulation of Accupoints with pressure. Bodywork is done on the floor on a futon mattress. No oils are used and the client remains fully clothed and covered with a soft cloth.
The energetic condition of the body is assessed by a practitioner and once this has been established, a specific body work treatment consisting of tonifying or dispersing energy, stretching, breathing, stress releasing and meditation techniques are utilized to bring the person into balance.
What does Shiatsu feel like?
Receiving Shiatsu is relaxing yet invigorating, leaving a feeling of tranquility and a sense of being in touch with every part of your body. Giving Shiatsu is like performing a moving meditation and leaves you feeling balanced and energized.
Is Shiatsu safe?
Shiatsu given by a qualified therapist is safe for everyone and particularly beneficial for pregnant women. Some therapists also treat small children and the elderly.
The basic guidelines as to when and where not to give or receive Shiatsu are similar to those of any treatment which affects the flow of energy, blood and body fluids through the system. These would include times of high fever, especially when accompanied by local infection or inflammation or by infectious disease of any sort; cancer; heart disease; and areas where there may be cuts, bruises, scar tissue, injury or swelling.
However, since Shiatsu techniques vary from the very dynamic to the soft and gentle, it could still be possible to use the supportive quality of some of the holding techniques in most of these situations.
Which problems can Shiatsu help?
There are several benefits to having Shiatsu as it can be used to treat a variety of minor problems such as insomnia, headaches, anxiety, back pain, constipation, skin irritations, etc. Shiatsu improves health generally by relieving stress, calming the nervous system and stimulating the circulatory and immune systems. It is particularly effective for stress-related tension and illnesses, insomnia, back pain, headaches and digestive upset, recovery from injuries. However, through its stimulation of the hormone system shiatsu can also affect the digestive and reproductive systems. Apart from bringing relief to symptoms, shiatsu gradually corrects long term postural and behavioral imbalances leading to improved body/ mind awareness and a general sense of well-being and peace of mind.
It is possible that one session of shiatsu will be sufficient to remedy the problem by stimulating the flow of energy along the channels. This may be followed by recommendations of regular exercises and changes in diet and/or lifestyle.
Shiatsu invokes a general feeling of good health in the whole person, not just in the physical sense. There are many benefits for both the giver and the receiver of shiatsu, both on a physical and spiritual level.
The immediate effect of treatments differs with each individual. A sense of well-being is common.
Because of the deep relaxation that usually occurs and the stimulus to the major body systems, you may have some healing reactions. Some people feel cold or flu-like symptoms, aches and pains, or headaches after the first treatment. These symptoms will only last for a day or so and usually subside with each subsequent treatment. If these symptoms persist, please consult a qualified physician immediately. In general, any such effects you may experience are positive signs from your body telling you it is making an attempt to correct its own condition in a natural way. These are signs of elimination and the beginning of the healing process.
The following are some unpleasant side reactions some people get after a shiatsu treatment and the causes of the same.
Coughing and generation of mucus or symptoms of a cold: The coughing and production of mucus is due to the body being encouraged to rid itself of its surplus foods (such as sugars and fats) in this form. A cold can sometimes develop when the mucus is produced, usually when the cells of the body are not healthy.
A feeling of tiredness: Tiredness can occur, frequently with a person who suffers from nervous tension. After therapy has removed this stress or tension, then the body's need for sleep and rest becomes apparent.
A headache or other pains and aches: There are two main reasons for these, which should only last a short time. Shiatsu redresses the balance of Qi in the body. Thus, blockages in the flow of energy are released and the Qi can rush around the body, causing a temporary imbalance in one part and resulting in an ache or pain. It is also possible that too much time or pressure may have been applied to a particular area. The amount needed varies considerably from one person to another. If the pain or headache persists after a few days, obtain qualified medical help.
Feeling emotional: Emotional feelings can occur while the energy is being stimulated to flow and balance is regained. The feelings may be connected with something from the past that has been suppressed and so, when these emotions resurface, it is best for them to be expressed in a way that is beneficial, such as crying.