How Does
How Shiatsu Massage Works
By Linda Ray
eHow Contributing Writer
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Basics
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Shiatsu massage is a Japanese form of massage that incorporates the Chinese meridian system of healing. The technique involves using the fingertips, thumbs and palms to apply pressure to various points in the body. Shiatsu massage, also referred to as deep-tissue massage, is meant to release and align the "chi," or energy, that is locked in the body. Shiatsu practitioners typically partner with acupuncturists and Chinese herbalists to restore the body's proper chi and find balance to prevent sickness. Poor blood circulation, stress, high blood pressure or tense muscles can block the chi.
Meridien Points
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Shiatsu massage therapists concentrate on the 12 meridien points identified by the yin and yang of the human body organs. The points that receive attention in a Shiatsu session include the kidneys, heart, lungs, spleen, liver and bladder. The stomach, intestines and pericardium receive a workout, while the body temperature is monitored during the session. The therapist taps, squeezes, rubs and applies pressure with the fingertips and palms over these organs to stimulate circulation and balance the chi. When the patient is flat on a floor mat, a shiatsu therapist may use feet, elbows and knees to apply extra pressure on the meridien points.
Benefits
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Shiatsu practitioners say that the therapy works on physical, emotional and spiritual levels to provide holistic healing. Patients often cry or laugh during a shiatsu treatment as feelings and thoughts are released. While shiatsu is supposed to work on the whole person and promote health on every level, the practice is especially beneficial for sufferers of respiratory or digestive conditions, leg cramps and migraine headaches. Also, the techniques are used to restore the body's natural immune system, making it easier to combat infections and diseases. Shiatsu massage can help to relieve symptoms of menopause by applying pressure to the small intestines that work in conjunction with the ovaries.
Products
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The popularity of Shiatsu massage has been used by commercial manufacturers, such as HoMedics, to create products, such as the Shiatsu Foot Massager and the Shiatsu Massaging Cushion with heat. Electrical charges move small balls that feel like fingertips to the parts of the body that rests on the equipment. Radiant heat complements the movements and replicates the heat created by therapists. HoMedics also produces a plush pillow that recreates the tapping sensation of a Shiatsu massage for the head, neck and shoulders.
eHow Article: How Shiatsu Massage Works
