Shiatsu Massage

What is Shiatsu Massage?

shernend — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:58:42 +0000

Shiatsu is a massage technique from Japan. In fact the word Shiatsu means “finger pressure”.

Despite its name this massage therapy not only utilizes the fingertips but also thumbs, palms, knees, forearms, elbows and the massage therapist can even use the feet.

They apply pressure to the meridians or energy lines. This is done to promote good health by stimulating the bodys energy flow.

Sessions can take from 40-60 minutes and will be done on a padded mat on the floor. It commences with gentle stretching and manipulation to help relax and stimulate the movement of energy in the muscles. Pressure can either stimulate or calm the patient. The specific needs of the patient will determine the amount of pressure that needs to be applied.

In order to gain the most from this form of massage therapy it is wise to wear thin, loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Cotton and linen is recommended. You should also be aware that you will be lying on the floor.

There are many benefits of Shiatsu massage therapy: Firstly it can help with pain management and alleviate pain. It can also help the body heal from sports injuries. Shiatsu massage therapy seeks to help a patient in a holistic way and tries to improve overall health.

It is a relaxing form of massage therapy and helps to relive stress. When done on a regular basis, a patient should improve their mental and physical health. Shiatsu massage therapy will improve the blood, lymphatic, and hormonal circulation, and help you to relax. It will also rid the body of toxins.

There are certain circumstances when Shiatsu massage therapy should not be used among these are, acute disorders, malignant tumors, acute inflammation, serious internal organ disease, and ulcers. You should be careful when you are pregnant and consult your doctor before having this treatment.

This is a relaxing gentle form of massage therapy and can be very beneficial to your overall health. However before using this treatment it is wise to educate yourself. There are many websites and literature on the Internet that will inform and help you.

Oriental medicine, including Shiatsu massage therapy is becoming increasingly popular in the West as people turn to holistic methods of improving their overall health. So next time you feel tired and stressed out after work or just tensed from lifes everyday problems you might like to try this relaxing form of massage therapy.

Zach Thompson is a Glyconutrients Representative. His clients range from actresses to pro athletes. You can get a free Glyconutrients consultation by visiting Glyconutrients. Clinical studies have shown that glyconutrients can help balance your immune system.

Article Source: ArticleRich.com

Is the HoMedics Shiatsu Massage Chair Any Good?

Is the HoMedics Shiatsu Massage Chair Any Good?

shernend — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:55:40 +0000

by Robin OBrien

All 3 main models of HoMedics massage chairs claim to deliver a shiatsu massage, but in all honesty, it depends on your expectation levels as to whether you’ll be satisfied with the massage.

Of the three, it’s the Scandinavian and ottoman that I rate and would even consider buying.

The company is well known as a supplier of wellness products to promote relaxation and to improve health. It established a name for itself in its manufacture of back and body massagers.

Following on from this success, the company expanded into the ever popular robotic massage chair market. Its chairs fall in the price range of between around $250 and $800, so by comparison to other companies, they are cheap and affordable by many.

First up is the HoMedics AntiGravity massage recliner chair. The company prattles on about NASA astronauts and so forth in its advertising, but what is basically meant by the term ‘antigravity’, is that when fully reclined your feet are slightly above your head.

This position has been shown to help improve circulation and most find it a quite relaxing position to be in. There are four models to choose from, the AG-2101, AG-3000, AG-3001 and AG-3000. The AG-2101 is the cheapest. It comes with ten motors and produces a vibrating massage.

There are 8 programs to select from - none of which I found to be very inspiring - and 3 speeds. I don’t rate the massage but I like that the chair comes with heat in the lower lumbar region. I also its overall styling; sleek and contemporary.

The other three models are more expensive, even more stylish and also come with shiatsu massage on the back. Again, I found the massage to be rather disappointing. This was only because I’ve had an excellent shiatsu massage from a Sanyo massage chair, which was many times better, but the price of the Sanyo is also many times the price of the HoMedics AntiGravity.

The HoMedics eLounger looks more like a massage chair you’d expect. It retails for between around $500 and $800 depending on which model you choose. It’s more sophisticated in technology than the AntiGravity model. You get modes of kneading, tapping, kneading and tapping and rolling.

There are 3 programmed sessions - Full, Upper and Lower Back - that are approximately 15 minutes in length. This mdel is in direct competition with the iJoy massage chair range, and quite frankly I think it’s better. Its styling is better than the iJoy as is its upholstery, control panel and - although a subjective comment - I prefer the administered massage.

So, would I buy it? No; instead, I might consider the last of the 3 HoMedics shiatsu massage chairs; the Scandinavian and ottoman. It retails for around $550 and looks very stylish with its black faux leather upholstery and wood arms and legs.

It has the following modes; kneading, rolling, tapping and kneading and tapping combined. As well as a full program massage, you can select a partial one (focusing on a 4″ range area of your body) or spot (focusing on just one spot for kneading or kneading and tapping). There are 3 intensities of low, medium and high and 3 speeds.

Finally, it has 3 zones of heat for lower back, seat and calves. Again, the claimed ’shiatsu’ massage does leave a lot to be desired but you’re never going to get a decent one at this price. Having said that, I find it to be relaxing and quite invigorating.

You’re not going to get the best shiatsu massage from a HoMedics chair, but they are good value for money and will appeal to those looking for a simple and understated model.

Follow the links for the HoMedics massage chair or another shiatsu massage chair like the Inada, Human Touch and iJoy massage chair.

Article Source: ArticleRich.com

What is Shiatsu Massage?

Do Shiatsu Meridians Actually Exist?

shernend — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 23:35:53 +0000

By Ion Doaga

Do meridian actually exist?

Meridians are something that people hear first when they talk about shiatsu massage. Meridian is the most related topic to shiatsu massage.

At least meridians are something that all the people talk about but very few actually understand what these are.

You may generally know that these are funnels inside a human body through which the energy “chi” is flowing and you might also heard that there are twelve main meridians. And this is all right. But did someone see the proof that energy meridians actually exist?

Understand meridians from the heart

Personally I have seen many pictures of the human body where the meridians were drawn. This is a good way to find out about the meridians location and to practice shiatsu massage on the patient’s body while you remember the meridians from the picture. Is this something common to you?

If somebody has graduated a shiatsu school like Japan Shiatsu School whose founder is Tokujiro Namikoshi or Iokai Center in Tokyo whose founder is Shizuto Masunaga, that doesn’t necessarily mean that they see the meridians differently from random people. Shiatsu master Ryokyu Endo who is one of Shizuto Masunaga’s students says that only after years of practice he started to understand what meridians and tsubo are.

Who can see the meridians?

Theoretically everybody may see the meridians but in practice doesn’t really happen like that. The masters of shiatsu say that the practitioner should feel with his heart. And by saying heart they don’t mean the physical heart, but they mean the mind and spirit.

In order to see the chi stream of meridians in a human body, the practitioner must move toward a deep subconscious shift in understanding for many years. The chi world is directly connected to the subconscious realm.

Meridians really exist

Shiatsu massage is really getting very popular. Many students graduating the Japanese schools of shiatsu returned back to the west and spread the teaching of shiatsu massage very fast.

Remember that shiatsu massage is not just a type of massage which involves some kind of physical techniques that affects directly the health of the patient. Zen shiatsu is the way to a better understanding of chi and meridians. Many years of practicing turns a shiatsu therapist into a true master.

That happens when the subconscious shift happens in the heart of a shiatsu therapist. Shiatsu masters can say that meridians really exist because they see them. We can’t argue the existence of meridians because it is an all known fact.

That is why people talk so much about shiatsu meridians. The other thing is that few people understand what meridians are and how to deal with them. A shiatsu master knows exactly which meridians blocks the energy flow and works out the necessary tsubo to restore the full functionality of the meridian.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ion_Doaga
http://EzineArticles.com/?Do-Shiatsu-Meridians-Actually-Exist?&id=3175263

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Shiatsu Massage - For Menopausal Treatment

shernend — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 23:33:00 +0000

By Gunawan Harinanto

Even women who suffer from menopause symptoms can benefit from shiatsu massage.

This has been found a long time ago and so in aid to other pharmaceutical remedies or herbal treatment, shiatsu massage therapy can help women alleviate the often uncomfortable and painful symptoms associated with menopausal stage.

The shiatsu practice was derived from an oriental medical principle pointing to human body as one with a series or network of meridians. This series of meridians is where chi, the vital positive energy, found to flow freely through it. According to this principle, a person becomes sickly once this flow of energy becomes disrupted and sluggish, or imbalanced.

This imbalance of energy in the body can also be associated to symptoms caused by menopause therefore is believed to be cured by using shiatsu massage therapy, with application of pressure on particular body points which correspond as meridian point. The goal now of shiatsu therapy is to bring back the free flow of chi so that the body becomes normal again.

How Are Menopause Symptoms Treated?

Before shiatsu massage therapy is administered, the patient is given accurate diagnosis first by a qualified practitioner. If the patient is suffering from shoulder pains, dizziness, and ringing in her ears, the practitioner can address these conditions with the help of shiatsu therapy.

If the patient has the tendency to suffer from any stomach disorders or nervous disorders, eating disorder or to become easily caught with frustration and anxiety, the practitioner can help by applying pressure to stomach point.

Likewise, heart palpitations and nervous disorders can be treated by applying pressure to meridian points for the kidneys, bladder, and the heart. It is also the same treatment that can help improve the patient’s condition when she is suffering from a constant fatigue. For obese and those with hormonal imbalance, the practitioner needs to apply pressure to the meridian point corresponding the gall bladder.

Tension and anxiety can be treated by finding the middle point existing between the patient’s eyebrows, above where the nose bridge is found. A circular massage technique finds relief for the patient as she inhales and exhales in a count of 30. Repeating the process will continue providing relief, and even more so when the patient shuts her eye and concentrates to her heartbeat and steady breathing.

What to Expect

Sometimes, it will help a lot if you ask the shiatsu massage specialist of the different techniques applied to your body points. Certain application of pressure can hurt you and if you are uncomfortable with it, you can always choose the type that works for best, whether it is pulsating, stroking, or smooth kind of shiatsu massage.

The session usually lasts from forty to an hour. You are typically applied pressure while lying down on a padded mat on a flat floor. It usually starts with manipulation of your skin combined with gentle stretching, and this allows relaxation of the muscles as well as stimulation of the body’s energy.

The effect on your body can be very calming, gentle, or good with high pressure. However, always remember that is should never let you feel hurt or painful.

While shiatsu massage therapy is about rapid circular motion, it is aided with medium pressure. The shiatsu massage shall aid to the symptoms of menopause and shall give you improved condition after each session and even better after continued ones.

For more information about Shiatsu Massage and other health tips, check out my Health Tips for Moms site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gunawan_Harinanto
http://EzineArticles.com/?Shiatsu-Massage—For-Menopausal-Treatment&id=3159278

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Shiatsu Massage Basics

shernend — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 22:18:24 +0000

By Gunawan Harinanto

Ever since shiatsu massage therapy was brought into the healthcare market, many people has been benefiting from it.

It is now popular worldwide and if you are reading this, you are probably interested to try it too. Why not? But first, let’s see how shiatsu will benefit you.

Health Philosophy

Shiatsu adheres to the philosophy that in order to have healthy benefits, the vital energy, ‘qi’ for Chinese people and ‘ki’ for Japanese people, should flow the entire body through its meridians, which are the series of pathways.

Other oriental health massage or therapy practices, like the acupuncture, also use these meridians principle likewise believing that these can be blocked once energy is not allowed to flow freely, subsequently producing symptoms of some diseases.

How It Is Applied

In the case of shiatsu, manipulative technique and pressure are used to adjust your body and allow the vital energy to flow generously. The pressure is applied onto the acupuncture points together with manipulating and stretching the body.

The techniques include dynamic rotations, palm pressing and gentle holding on the elbows, knee, feet and knees on your meridians. Shiatsu massage does not utilize massage oil and performed on you with full clothes on.

It is believed that this therapy can benefit those people suffering with any of the conditions, such as: migraines, arthritis, joint problems, muscular pain, stress, chronic fatigue, digestive and skin orders.

The massage therapy typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. This is done via sessions, with the first expected to be longer than the succeeding ones since the shiatsu therapist requires medical history, lifestyle detail, and other health information from you.

You will be applied with the massage with you lying down whether on a padded mat, at a floor level, or on a couch. If not, a shiatsu massage chair will be used, which is now gaining popularity because of its convenience and benefits.

A combination of different treatment styles are often applied by the shiatsu practitioners.

These include Tsubo therapy, which uses methods like needles, electrical devices, massage, and moxa, focusing on the pressure point natures. The moxa is an herbal plant derived, believed to prevent and treat diseases via heat application.

Namikoshi Shiatsu is another style which emphasizes more on physical techniques like rubbing on specific body areas and pressing to assist to its healing.

Zen Shiatsu, on the other hand, is the third style, which as opposed to particular points used on other styles, concentrates on the entire meridian points and performed with both hands.

What Are To Be Expected After The Therapy

After the massage treatment, the clients are expected to find new sense of energy levels, as well as relaxed muscles while joints with improved mobility. It is also normal for them to experience muscle soreness and mild headaches after the treatment but should disappear only after a few hours of rest.

The application of Shiatsu massage therapy depends on the condition of the client. The normal course would continue with sessions lasting up to 6 or even 10 treatments. However, most clients who experienced the benefits of the therapy continue to avail even after the condition is gone.

This is not a problem since shiatsu massage therapy is safe as long as it is performed by only qualified practitioner or therapist. It is deeply relaxing and releases the tension all throughout your body that you can still continue especially on the rough days that you went through.

For more information about Shiatsu Massage and other health tips, check out my Health Tips for Moms site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gunawan_Harinanto
http://EzineArticles.com/?Shiatsu-Massage-Basics&id=3159221

Shiatsu Massage - Some Little Yet Significant Known Benefits

shernend — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 22:15:53 +0000

By Gunawan Harinanto

A point-pressure method, shiatsu massage is a form of acupressure using only the fingers, palm, elbow points, knees, and feet and toes.

It is a long time Chinese medicine practice designed to improve or balance out the energy flow in the human body. Using those point-pressure body parts, the massage enables the body to experience deep relaxation, increased and balance energy levels.

For the couple thousand years, it is undeniable what the principle shiatsu adheres to being able to produce many health and wellness benefits to the ancient and modern people alike. When it went into Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, the shiatsu therapy widely evolved from treating spiritual, mental, and physical conditions into curing simple muscular disorders and tension.

As it continued to be exported, other Western countries adopted it as well back in 1970s causing now the therapy system to become a universal treatment technique providing overall wellness to the people. As its popularity rose, licensed providers flourished so that every individual can now enjoy its little yet significant known benefits.

Muscle pain and rheumatoid arthritis

According to the statistics, a percent of the population in the world is a sufferer of rheumatoid arthritis. A chronic inflammation occurring in the body tissues and attacking the joint linings, rheumatoid arthritis can be treated by shiatsu acupressure massage system by alleviating the patient with these symptoms. It is most effective especially when the massage pressure is applied into the hands and feet where arthritis commonly affects; but also beneficial when applied to different body parts affected by the disease. In addition to treating rheumatoid arthritis, shiatsu massage is also helpful in improving the health and condition of other muscles found in the body by reducing pain and improving blood circulation.

Digestive and circulatory system

A gentle pressure provided by the shiatsu massage therapist is known to be therapeutically beneficial to the digestive and circulatory system. It helps improve cellular nutrition and the circulation throughout your body that its digestive system allows food to be digested more easily while it also aids in proper elimination of its waste products. It is also beneficial as it assists in the metabolism and removal of fat as well as increases the body’s stamina.

Migraine and Headaches

Migraines are caused when blood vessels found in your brain are rapidly narrowing and widening giving you pain and irritation. Some of the common symptoms include nausea, weakness, numbness, vision problems and sensitivity to glare or light.

There are many causes why migraines occur and some of them are stress, hunger, foods that contain caffeine and nitrates, and weather changes. The shiatsu principle said to ease migraines by increasing your blood flow and improve circulation as well as relax your body.

Pregnancy

Not only those women who suffer from depression and menstrual cramps during menstrual cycles who benefit from shiatsu but those who are expecting as well. In fact, it has been used since shiatsu has begun thousands of years ago.

The principle of shiatsu is believed to help pregnant women who are in labor as well as help in turning the babies inside the womb. It also helps alleviate morning sickness symptoms as well as swelling often associated with pregnancy.

Skin

Shiatsu massage is known to help stimulating the circulation of the skin’s soft tissues in the capillaries. As the massage to the skin is administered, it enables the sebaceous glands to open up and keep the skin smooth and moist. It keeps resilience of the skin and prevents wrinkling.

For more information about Shiatsu Massage and other health tips, check out my Health Tips for Moms site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gunawan_Harinanto
http://EzineArticles.com/?Shiatsu-Massage—Some-Little-Yet-Significant-Known-Benefits&id=3159321

Shiatsu Massage - An Oriental Therapy Rebalancing Treatment

shernend — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 22:13:03 +0000

By Gunawan Harinanto

Shiatsu originated from the Eastern or oriental therapy treatment to energy imbalance and physical disorders.

It is typically associated as mere oriental massage; however, the underlying principle that it has been promoting since 2000 years ago proves that there is more to shiatsu massage therapy than mere massage.

In fact, the use of point-pressure method, with thumbs, fingers, palms, elbows, knees, and feet and toes as instrument, and without the use other mechanical or medical instruments, can help improve one’s overall health and well-being. How? Read through to find more about this oriental therapy rebalancing energy treatment.

First, let’s take a look at the wide benefits that shiatsu provides to the human bodies:

- improving circulatory system

- giving flexibility to muscular system as well as to the skin

- aiding in recovery of the bone system balance

- facilitating in the digestive system functions

- improving endocrinous system

- regulating the nervous system’s functions

Note that all these benefits are delivered with the use of point-pressure principle promoted by shiatsu massage. The point-pressure massage, as it sounds as simple lacking deep health significance, reaches through the chi flowing through the series of meridians which are associated with the vital organs of the human body.

The massage balances the out of control flowing of chi or energy in these meridians, so that after enough shiatsu massage therapy sessions, there is a balanced energy. As the balanced energy is achieved, there reflects improved condition on the treated specific meridian points. Shiatsu therefore is a medical instrument/device-free technique that helps correct internal dysfunctions, promote and keep health back on track.

It does not cure diseases though. That assignment is of course left to the more qualified medical practitioners and wonders of the science technology. But what shiatsu can do is to give bigger sense of improvement that the client instantly experiences once they start having the massage therapy; and enjoying the fortification of the functions of the body organs and more importantly to the natural resistance against illnesses.

It is not to be confused. Shiatsu is designed to normalize and balance vital energy to improve overall well being. By well being, it means not only the physical but the mental, emotional, intellectual and spiritual being. The meridian sections found in the body where the chi flows freely, are said to be linked to all these aspects of the human and spiritual body.

The shiatsu massage principle instantly works when there is a deficit or overflow of energy chi in these meridian sections. These couple conditions mean there is an irregularity in the nature of the human body; therefore needs to be corrected, and shiatsu can administer a lot of help in doing so.

The therapist works with their hands, elbows, knees and feet to find these irregularities and do that pressure-point technique to give you energy rebalance. The shiatsu massage therapy is very well a concept that ideally provides better alternative to people seeking only improved well being and better lifestyle.

In the daily hassles they experience, through the trials and harshness, rebalancing the energy through this massage technique will help in improving your life so that an individual can live happier, with uplifted being, and controlled health condition.

Shiatsu massage therapy is not a mere massage method but it goes deep beyond, seeking more significance in the name of better health and well being.

For more information about Shiatsu Massage and other health tips, check out my Health Tips for Moms site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gunawan_Harinanto
http://EzineArticles.com/?Shiatsu-Massage—An-Oriental-Therapy-Rebalancing-Treatment&id=3159309

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Tradition and Technology Collide with Shiatsu Massage Chairs

shernend — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 17:03:51 +0000

By Steve Esquire

Shiatsu actually evolved from the roots of acupuncture which targets certain trigger points throughout the body.

These triggers points are thought to regulate the flow of energy in the body. Blockages can occur which hinders the flow of energy.

Shiatsu applies pressure with different motions and firmness to help manipulate the energy flow.

Shiatsu is a strict tradition, which found its way into mechanical versions with the rising Japanese manufacturing prowess. Now you can find shiatsu massage therapy in a massage chair with finese of a Japanese master.

A shiatsu massage induces deep relaxation. It also increases the energy flow. The shiatsu massage technique employs rhythmic, gradual pressure and stretching.

Shiatsu also applies pressure to specific points in the body. Shiatsu is believed to manipulate the flow of energy in the body, restoring balance and well being.

Effective shiatsu massage increases the energy flow while inducing deep relaxation to brings the natural balance back. Shiatsu massage has been performed by skilled therapists to ease and relieve aches and pains throughout the body.

Thanks to many breakthroughs in science and technology, many of the traditional shiatsu techniques have been successfully reproduced. One interesting technology can create a virtual map of your body’’s acupressure points.

These points are then fed into the software program. The massage chair then customizes the shiatsu massage to each individual. The massage recliner actually targets your pressure points for systematic relief.

Massage chair companies continue to refine and perfect the long standing traditions of shiatsu massage. They have overcome many technological hurldes to deliver truly amazing and effective shiatsu massage.

From the development of finger like appendages to sophisticated software programs that can map over 100 acupressure points on the back alone. These technologies are advancing rapidly to make these robotic masseuses more like the human touch.

There are various subtle massage techniques with shiatsu massage. Shiatsu uses the fingers and thumbs to penetrate into pressure points to release energy. The energy can become blocked and cause the muscles to tighten. Shiatsu seeks to reverse this process.

Through the use of the body’’s trigger points, the energy flow is once again restored. Shiatsu has been shown to increase alertness and relaxation. It also relieves aches and pains in the muscles.

Shiatsu is geared to reverse the process of the body under tension. When the body is under tension, the vital organs kick into high gear to support the body. This stress tightens muscles for action.

Shiatsu works to stimulate the acupressure points to relax the vital organs. This helps the whole body to relax. The kneading and tapping actions help to stimulate the muscles. These techniques have been imitated quite precisely in the best massage chair recliners.

Find relief for many of your issues and symptoms with a shiatsu massage chairs. They have a wide variety of massage therapies to assist your needs. Shiatsu is used to treat some forms of arthritis to bring relief. It can help stimulate circulation and bring better color to the skin.

Reduce muscular pain, or warm up muscles prior to exercise with an invigorating shiatsu massage. A shiatsu massage assists to metabolize fat to increase stamina and nutrition flow throughout the body.

The human touch is difficult to replicate. It is a complex challenge. However, many of the subtle movements of the hand have been imitated. Many massage chairs can perform many of the same tasks.

The flexibility of our hands is quite amazing, but massage chair designers keep finding more innovative ways to make them realistic. However, these robotic massage chairs do have advantages over massage therapists.

You can use them anytime and they do not get exhausted. Many have features such as heat therapy, music, lower body stretching, and of course full body massage capabilities.

A shiatsu massage chair is a compliment to the long tradition of the shiatsu massage technique.[]

Interested in learning more about shiatsu therapy chairs? These top massage chairs are being produced by Panasonic, Sanyo, Omega and Takasima. Find your own shiatsu therapy chair to meet your most important massage therapy needs.

Significance of a Shiatsu Massage

shernend — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 06:59:18 +0000

By Jan H Schiphorst

A massage is responsible for providing a healthy mind along with a chaste soul to its recipient. It also provides a robust physique to the person.

Realizing its benefits, most of the people tend to incorporate it into their daily time table. Massage can be of many types, such as the Swedish massage, Deep tissue massage, Trigger point massage and many others.

With the application of pressure using the thumb, fingers and the palm and making either circular, horizontal or vertical strokes a massage therapist provides relief to the client. The muscles and the tissues of the receiver’s body are well rubbed and squeezed by the massage therapist for a quick relief.

As a result of the massage, its beneficiary acquires mental relaxation, relief from stress, physical strength and an improved circulation of blood in the body.

Shiatsu massage is another popular form of massage but is a slightly different from the others and is the most effective and result oriented as well. This massage originated in Japan and derives its name from a Japanese word that means “finger pressure”.

Shiatsu believes that the human body is composed of energy which is termed as “ki”. This energy flows through the body via specific energy channels or meridians. It is believed that when the flow of this energy becomes inappropriate in the body or some obstructions are observed in its path, then it is an indication of ill health or some disorder.

Our body has two energy levels at the extremes, namely Yin which is the negative energy of the body and Yang which is the positive energy. When the energy level of the body reaches either of the above two positions then it is detrimental to the person possessing it.

The accurate energy level lies somewhere between these two points which is well known as “ki”. The massage practitioner strives to achieve this energy stage for you.

The massage practitioner detects a point in the body of the receiver of the massage along one of the meridians of his body. He then applies pressure slightly with some part of his body which ever is required at that point. He can make use of his arms, fingers, elbows, knees, legs, feet or toes for the application of pressure.

This is done to refurbish the actual energy level of the body and to remove any obstacles present in its path. If the obstruction in the path of the flow of energy is stern, then the pressure applied by the practitioner may be hard so as to invoke proper body function. At times the experience may be painful, but is extremely profitable.

A Shiatsu massage endows its receiver with emotional contentment, physical assistance, spiritual sagacity and mental tranquility. A Shiatsu massage can help you to attain a balanced state of mind and body.

A massage that carries so many benefits with it should definitely be your ideal choice whenever you visit a massage parlor or a spa.[]

Provided by: Jan H Schiphorst http://www.ProMassageTable.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jan_H_Schiphorst

All About Shiatsu Massage Techniques

shernend — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 05:42:22 +0000

Author: John Robben

Shiatsu is a massage technique that uses the power of touch and applying pressure.

This type of therapy comes from ancient Japanese culture however was adapted into Chinese medicine practices and uses the principles of the meridian healing system.

The Meridian healing system focuses opening up the body and increasing the blood circulation. The Qi pronounced chi is to flow throughout the body to produce high amounts of energy to balance out the needs of the body.

There are twelve Meridians that are associated with organs of the body in the Meridian path of healing such as the kidney, liver, spleen, stomach, heart, lungs, bladder, gall bladder, the small and larger intestines, the body temperature regulator, and the pericardium. All of these organs provide the path for the energy of the body to flow when the body is not immune to illnesses.

Shiatsu therapy is also helpful towards those that suffer with arm aches and tension, long term usage of repetitive movements such as a keyboard, writing, computer mouse, and other any other repetitive motion devices.

When the body is imbalanced it causes the immune system to become weak and vulnerable to contracting diseases. If an individual experiences a loss of energy, this will show that the body is weakening, the organs are losing their ability to function properly and tissues of the body are slow failing.

So the Qi (chi) flow loses its capabilities to flow as freely. The massage therapist will be able to assist in completing the process to boost the immune system in the body. The massage therapist uses a pressure method using the fingers, thumbs and palms to massage the area based on the required amount of applied pressure is needed on the affected area.

It uses massage techniques that include rubbing, squeezing, and tapping in order to release the blocked energy in the body.

Shiatsu massage therapy is used to treat many disorders such as:

Back pain

Sciatica nerve pain

Bulging/herniated discs

Whiplash injuries

Headaches

Migraines

Frozen shoulders and back problems

Joint pain

Carpal tunnel

Tennis elbow

Abdominal pain

Stress and fatigue

Anxiety disorders

Muscle pain disorders

Dizziness and weakness

Vertigo

Gastrointestinal disorders

Shiatsu is known for curing medical disorders and preventing those health disorders from progression any further. Shiatsu massage can help restore back full function of parts of the body that were affected by a health issue. Shiatsu massage provides a long list of additional benefits such as:

Provides complete relaxation

Gets rid of toxins and wastes from the body

Prevent diseases

Blood circulation improves

Reduces overall stress and anxiety

Balance the ki (chi) in the body

Increases energy, mental and spiritual well-being

Increase mobility and flexibility in the body

Balancing menstrual cycles

Relaxes the musculoskeletal body structure

Increase sexual exuberance

Clears the mind of cloudiness

With all of these benefits Shiatsu massage continues to help with relieving a long range of health illnesses that helps with restoring the mobility for the entire body. If there is pain in the body it means that there is discomfort and an imbalance present.

The technique of Shiatsu focuses on the pressure that is applied to the body in a slow process, and if the individual is experiencing pain in the session, the licensed massage therapist will lessen in the applied pressure.

It is important to talk with a physician before attempting any of these treatments as this will help to best determine the type of techniques to try on your body.[]

Resources:

http://www.holisticonline.com/shiatsu/hol_shiatsu_intr.htm

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/all-about-shiatsu-massage-techniques-594568.html

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Written by John Robben Owner Operator of Ultimate Water Massage and the Natural Pain Relief Blog. Visit one of the largest and oldest online suppliers of Massage tools, Massage tools, Natural Pain Relief, Massagers and herbal heat packs for the microwave.

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