Benefits of Shiatsu massage

Among all the massage methods, Shiatsu massage is one of the most famous massages. She finds her roots in Japan. Shiatsu achieves beneficial and revitalizing 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 chairs. In contrast to many other countries, therapy through massage, especially the Shiatsu variant, is medically recognized and has even been officially defined as a medication for the past 50 years. If we translate the word Shiatsu into German, it means something like finger (Shi) and pressure (atsu). It's about applying pressure with your fingers, affecting all areas of the body.

In the 70s, Shiatsu therapy also spread to Germany. Since then, it has been continually adapted and further developed to reflect current findings and needs. Nevertheless, you should choose a therapist with a professionally sound training, which he can prove with certificates. Professional associations such as “The German Association for Physiotherapy (ZVK)” can provide you with useful information that you should 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 a person's life energy, the so-called Qi. So that this can circulate in the body and not fail to have its effect, the three components should be in balance. The three components include the physical, psychological and mental health of the person, which is generally viewed holistically. If the areas become imbalanced, health is at risk and the Qi cannot stay in the flow. So in this case, all three areas must be treated for the therapy to be successful. In the West, holistic treatment has not yet become widespread. Symptoms are often only treated selectively; when we have a headache, we take a tablet and get short-term relief. We have not yet internalized the fact that headaches are a side effect of tension due to stress and that not only the pain but also the cause should be remedied, for example with a “chemical-free” massage.

Qi, the life energy, is transported through the body via interconnected channels called meridians. If the flow of energy is blocked, this becomes immediately noticeable to us. By applying pressure with your fingers, the blockages can be released and the energy can flow freely in the body again. Shiatsu (finger pressure) is 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 tension (often triggered by stress)
• Vitalization when tired and lacking energy
• Pain relief in the muscles, joints or the most common source of pain, the back
• Strengthening the immune system
• Releasing fear and internal tension

The kneading treatment in the Shiatsu variant provides one thing to all the people treated, namely complete relaxation and recovery!

Even if the form of massage is not medically recognized in Europe, it is still successfully used for complaints such as rheumatism, gynecological and psychological concerns, respiratory and digestive problems. Their beneficial and energizing effects are confirmed by the test subjects and that is the main thing, recognized or not. Everything that is good for us is allowed and we should take advantage of it. In any case, the Japanese have always used Shiatsu massage and are obviously not wrong.

What steps are involved in preparing for a Shiatsu massage?

Unfortunately, Shiatsu massage is not suitable 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 health status. Topics such as personal habits, general lifestyle and, above all, health problems are addressed.
• contemplation of the body: The trained and attentive eye of the therapist can analyze the condition of the body with just a few glances. Information is primarily provided by his eyes, breathing, skin color and posture.
• Listen: Let the body speak. You would be amazed at what our voice and body noises reveal about us.
• Feeling: The therapist feels the pulse in several parts of the body. This measure is based on the Chinese method and provides some valuable information regarding blood circulation and internal conductivity.

The process of a Shiatsu massage

The treatment takes place based on the information collected about our body. To do this, you can make yourself comfortable on a massage mat, a massage table or even a massage chair. Undressing is not absolutely necessary; comfortable, casual clothes can also be worn. The choice of position and external conditions depends individually on the treatment goal.

The therapist applies pressure to specific points on the body with his fingers, but also with his palms or even elbows. The Shiatsu massage also includes stretching exercises and gymnastic elements. Little by little he addresses the areas of the body that, based on his experience and previous analysis, should be treated further. The one-hour massage is individually tailored and unique. You will immediately feel the stimulated flow of energy and enjoy the feeling of complete relaxation and vitalization.

What speaks against Shiatsu therapy?

In general, Shiatsu massage is not contraindicated. However, in certain situations it makes sense to consult a doctor beforehand. A medical assessment is recommended for people who are chronically ill, those who have recently had an operation, and those who are very elderly. However, there are no concerns for pregnant women.

Although Shiatsu cannot replace conventional medical treatment, 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 applications 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 programs similar 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 applies varying pressure to different areas of the body. A short session is enough to feel relaxed and energized. A great and uncomplicated opportunity to experience an energy boost! While you're looking for the right armchair, take the time to test and compare!