FAQ: Shiatsu
Shiatsu (Japanese for ‘finger pressure’) massage originated in the early twentieth century by Tokujiro Namikoshi in Japan. Although a fairly new and evolving technique, it is based upon many of the ideas of centuries-old Traditional Chinese Medicine (especially the ideas of Chi, or Vital Energy), as well as “western” anatomy and physiology.
A Shiatsu session is performed in a quiet space on a futon mat on the floor or a low massage table. Soft music may be played to enhance the relaxation effect. No oils or lotions are used, and the client is clothed.
Several types of strokes are used during a Shiatsu session, including softening, point work, friction, percussion, joint rotation and stretching. Softening, with open palms, soft fists, sides of hands, warms the body’s tissues and prepares it for the main work, the point work. Point Work uses thumbs, finger tips, knuckles, elbows, along specific points on the body to allow the body’s energy to flow more freely, release tension, and re-balance the body. Friction and percussion are used to “stir up” the body’s energy and to help more deeply relax the client, and joint rotation and stretching help the client’s body move more freely and with decreased pain and tension.
The practitioner will adjust his pressure to meet what the client can finds comfortable, moving with slow, smooth grace, working with the client’s breath. Typically, pressure is applied with the client’s exhalations, sometimes held through multiple cycles of breath, to deepen the relaxation and movement of energy.
Relaxation is the primary benefit of a Shiatsu session. Additionally, a client may feel invigorated, and have reduced pain and tension. The body’s energy may be increased, as well as a sense of balance and an improved sense of well-being. Shiatsu can also help with backache, and with stiffness in the joints. Skillful point work can also help with sinus congestions, headache, and nausea.
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