Shiatsu: Japan's Method Of Relieving Stress
Shiatsu is a Japanese massaging technique. It's practitioner's use fingers, palms, elbows, knees or feet to apply pressure to specific sections of the human body. Shiatsu is used to detect irregularities in the body and correct them as well. Because it relaxes the body, it can be used as a stress-buster. Building up of stress can be prevented in daily life by having regular sessions of Shiatsu.
Shiatsu originates in ancient forms of Chinese medicine, well known massage techniques from Japan, as well as modern disciplines of physiotherapy and psychology. The word, coming from Japanese, translates as 'finger pressure', even though palms, thumbs, knees, feet and elbows are also used to apply pressure.
Shiatsu is quite different from other well known disciplines in the way it is practiced although it has its origin quite similar to them. It is basically a combination of diagnosis and therapy. In fact the illness can be treated in some cases without carrying out any prior diagnosis. But in modern medicine careful diagnosis precedes the course of treatment for a specific problem. Same is the process followed by some traditional Chinese medicine like acupressure.
This therapy utilizes the natural abilities already possessed by the body for healing and stimulating the immune system. It requires active involvement of both practitioner and person receiving the therapy, thus becoming a meditative and non-rational process of healing, thus the internal energy of the receiver of the therapy is contacted for the stimulation of natural healing and stress relief processes.
Researchers have proven that shiatsu is an effective method of healing the body and relieving stress, and many individuals can attest to this as well. In this type of massage therapy, it is particularly important that the practitioner has specialized training, and that he or she is licensed by the state or other jurisdiction. No longer an odd off-shoot of massage, it is becoming recognized around the world as a method that works.
A holistic approach to treatment can improve all bodily systems. The body possesses it's own wisdom in healing, and Shiatsu can help access that wisom, allowing the body to care for itself most effectively. It can reduce stress and increase vitality and well-being through natural means. It's whole system approach adresses issues in an integrative manner allowing each body system to best support and heal the others.
Shiatsu is a massage technique that originates in Japan and uses arm and leg parts to apply pressure to treatment areas, although the Japanese word translate literally as "finger pressure". This Japaniese Massage is a combination of diagnosis and treatment through the use of acupressure. It utilizes the body's natural defenses and stimulates the immune system. Research supports the benefits of the treatment although it is important that the practitioner has specialized training and that he or she is licensed by the state or other jurisdiction. This technique helps one to handle stress, feel energetic and stay healthy.
Published June 26th, 2007