Advantages of the Shiatsu Massage

Among all the massage methods, Shiatsu massage is one of the best known. It has its roots in Japan. Shiatsu achieves beneficial and vitalising effects against stress, lack of energy, pain, tension and depression.

The most important facts about Shiatsu massage

As already mentioned, this method comes from Japan. We have the Japanese to thank for many positive inventions and discoveries. Among other things, the massage chair. In contrast to many other countries, massage therapy, especially the Shiatsu variant, is medically recognised and has even been officially defined as a medicine for the last 50 years. If we translate the word shiatsu into German, it means finger (shi) and pressure (atsu). So it is about applying pressure with the fingers, affecting all parts of the body.

In the 1970s, Shiatsu therapy also spilled over to us in Germany. Since then, it has been constantly adapted and further developed to meet current knowledge and needs. Nevertheless, you should choose a therapist with a professionally sound training, which he or she can prove by means of certificates. Professional associations such as "Der Deutsche Verband für Physiotherapie (ZVK)" can provide you with useful information to consider when it comes to Shiatsu massage.

What exactly does Shiatsu mean?

Although Shiatsu massage comes from Japan, it is derived from traditional Chinese medicine. This is mainly about the life energy of a person, the so-called Qi. In order for this to circulate in the body and thus not to miss its effect, the three components should be in balance. The three components include the physical, psychological and mental health of the person, who is generally viewed holistically. If these areas become imbalanced, health is endangered and the Qi cannot remain in flow. Therefore, all three areas must be treated in order for the therapy to be successful. In the western world, holistic treatment has not yet become widespread. Often, complaints are only treated selectively; in the case of a headache, we reach for a tablet and get a short-term improvement. We have not yet internalised that headaches are a side effect of tension due to stress and that therefore not only the pain but also the cause should be treated, for example with a "chemical-free" massage.

The transport of Qi, the life energy, through the body leads via interconnected channels, so-called meridians. If the energy flow is blocked, this is immediately noticeable to us. Through pressure massage with the fingers, the blockages can be released and the energy can flow freely in the body again. Shiatsu (finger pressure) is therefore to be understood as a blockage remover and energy supplier.

What are the benefits of Shiatsu massage?

Since the effects of Shiatsu are so extensive, we will only mention the most important benefits here:

• Reduction of stress and its consequences
• Relaxation of tensions (often triggered by stress)
• Vitalisation for tiredness and lack of energy
• Pain relief in the muscles, joints or the most common source of pain, the back
• Strengthening the immune system
• Releasing anxiety and inner tension

However, the kneading cure in the Shiatsu variant provides one thing for all people treated, namely complete relaxation and recuperation!

Even though the massage form is not medically recognised in Europe, it is still successfully used for complaints such as rheumatism, gynaecological and psychological concerns, respiratory and digestive problems. Its beneficial and empowering effects are confirmed by the subjects and that is the main thing, recognised or not. Everything that is good for us is allowed and should be used. The Japanese, at any rate, have been using Shiatsu massage since time immemorial and are obviously not wrong.

What steps are part of the preparation for a Shiatsu massage?

Unfortunately, the Shiatsu massage is not for everyone. Therefore, a prior health check is essential. This includes the following four steps:

• Preparatory interview: During this interview, the therapist determines the client's state of health. Topics such as personal habits, the general lifestyle and especially health problems are addressed.
• Observation of the body: The trained and attentive eye of the therapist can analyse the condition of the body with a few glances. Information is provided above all by the eyes, breathing, skin colour and posture.
• Listen: Let the body do the talking. You would be amazed at what our voice and body sounds reveal about us.
• Palpation: The therapist palpates the pulse at several points on the body. This measure is based on the Chinese method and provides some valuable information regarding blood circulation and internal conductivity.

The procedure of a Shiatsu massage

The treatment takes place on the basis of the information gathered about our body. You can make yourself comfortable on a massage mat, a massage table or a massage chair. It is not necessary to undress, comfortable, casual clothes can also be worn. The choice of position and external conditions depends on the individual treatment goal.

The therapist applies pressure to certain points on the body with his fingers, but also with the palms or even elbows. The shiatsu massage also includes stretching exercises and gymnastic elements. One by one, he takes care of the body zones that should be treated according to his experience and previous analysis. The one-hour massage is individually tailored and unique. You will immediately feel the stimulated energy flow and enjoy the feeling of complete relaxation as well as vitalisation.

What speaks against a Shiatsu therapy?

In general, Shiatsu massage is not contraindicated. However, in certain situations, prior consultation with a doctor is advisable. Chronically ill as well as recently operated and very elderly people are recommended to have a doctor's assessment. Pregnant women, on the other hand, have no concerns.

Shiatsu cannot replace conventional medical treatment, but it can certainly complement it and contribute positively to its effect. No matter how we define and call massages, their positive effects, similar to other proven alternative treatments such as acupuncture or yoga, are obvious and can be confirmed by the people treated. For more energy in life!

Shiatsu massage meets massage chair

Massage chairs offer various programmes analogous to manual therapy, including shiatsu massage. They are in no way inferior in quality to treatment by a therapist. The preferred pace is slow. The chair exerts alternating pressure on different areas of the body. A short session is enough to feel relaxed and energised. A great and uncomplicated opportunity to experience an energy boost! While searching for the right armchair, take your time to test and compare!