Shiatsu Finger Pressure Massage

My first experience with Shiatsu (or Shiatzu) was in Hawaii. I had been having some back problems and decided to see a chiropractor. I found later that he was licensed in Shiatsu as well, but I had never heard of it.

I had been to a chiropractor before and found some relief from my back pain, but Shiatsu made me feel good all over. I still remember how wonderful I felt afterward.

Shiatsu is different than the Western style of massage since it is based on acupuncture and herbal medicine theories. The goal is to identify and correct imbalances in the body through gentle pressure on the meridians to improve energy flow (chi or qi).

Shiatsu can treat joint pain, headaches, back pain, digestive problems, depression, back pain, menstrual problems, injuries and other maladies.

It is unlike other forms of massage since you can wear your own clothing. It is suggested that you wear loose and comfortable clothing. You should not eat for at least two hours prior to your massage. Avoid activity after the massage for an hour and drink plenty of water to help your system heal.

The practitioner uses his thumb, palm, forearm, knee or elbow to put pressure on the release point for your tight muscles. When the person giving the treament is not pushing you are asked to inhale. When pressure is being applied, you are asked to exhale. Breathing properly is very important in your treatments.

Shiatsu can calm an overactive nervous system, improve circulation, and relieve stiff muscles. All I know is that I couldn't wait to return for another treatment. The practitioner would ask me ever so often if the pain was too much, but to me it was "good pain" and I seldom told him to back off.

Most Shiatsu practitioners take three years of training to get their diploma. There are schools in various parts of the world.

Massage, chiropractics, and fitness... the holy trinity for good health and holistic wellness .

~ Mary

Shiatsu belongs to the classification of Bodywork and Massage Therapy. The following are also in this classification of holistic healing therapies:

• Hot stone massage
• Reflexology
• Yogassage
• Gwa sha
• Abhyanga massage
• Feldenkrais