Shiatsu Massage
_What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork. The word shiatsu means "finger pressure", and shiatsu is sometimes described as a finger pressure massage. How does Shiatsu work? Like acupuncture, shiatsu is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine, where illness is thought to result from imbalances in the natural flow of energy, or qi (pronounced "chee") through the body. Shiatsu therapists use finger and palm pressure to energetic pathways, called meridians to improve the flow of qi. A scientific explanation is that shiatsu calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles, and alleviates stress. What does Shiatsu feel like? The shiatsu therapist applies pressure using his or her fingers, thumbs, and/or palms in a continuous rhythmic sequence. The pressure feels more localized, because unlike other types of massage, the finger pads are used to apply pressure for most of the treatment instead of the entire palm. Certain pressure points may feel tender, which some people describe it as "good pain." If you feel any discomfort or pain during the treatment, tell your therapist and he or she will adjust the pressure so that it is comfortable to you. Most people say shiatsu is as relaxing as a classic forms of massage therapy. __5 Little Known Benefits Of Shiatsu Massage
_shiatsu massages are performed not only for relaxation, but to aid a wide variety of ailments and symptoms. The following are five benefits of shiatsu massage. Skin: Shiatsu
massages, or acupressure, help stimulate circulation in the
capillaries of the skin's soft tissues. The massage also serves
to stimulate the secretion of the sebaceous glands and keeps
skin moist and smooth. This helps give skin resilience and helps
prevent wrinkling. A shiatsu massage will help improve the look
and glow of the skin with improved blood circulation.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Muscle Pain: Shiatsu and acupressure massages can help alleviate the symptoms caused by arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammation of the body's tissue and it attacks the linings of the joints. This disease affects one percent of the world's population. Shiatsu applied to the hands and feet are most effective when suffering from arthritis. Pressure from the massage can also be applied directly to any area affected by Rheumatoid arthritis. Shiatsu can also be used to improve the overall health of muscles throughout the body. Shiatsu helps limber muscles and gives muscles nutrition by improved circulation. It also helps reduce muscular pain. Migraine Headaches: Migraines are usually caused by a rapid widening and narrowing of the blood vessels in the brain or head, causing irritation and pain. Common symptoms of migraine headaches include nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, weakness, numbness and vision problems. Migraines are thought to be cause by changes in weather, stress, hunger, foods containing nitrates and sometimes caffeine. Shiatsu massages helps aid migraines by relaxing the body and increasing blood flow and circulation throughout the body. Pregnancy: Shiatsu massages have been used for thousands of years to aid women during monthly cycles to alleviate symptoms such as menstrual cramps and depression. This kind of massage has also been used for years for also for pregnancy as well. Shiatsu has been known to help women in labor and help babies turn in the womb. It can induce labor in women who are overdue and help ease morning sickness and swelling often caused by pregnancy. Circulatory and Digestive System: Shiatsu massages are also found to help aid the circulatory and digestive system. A gently massage helps improve circulation and cellular nutrition throughout the body. A massage also benefits the digestive system allowing food to digest more easily and aids in the elimination of waste products. A shiatsu massage also increases stamina by storing energy reserves and assists in fat metabolism and removal. |