How to Balance Chi With Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu is a Japanese massage technique that helps the body achieve optimum balance by working with chi, or energy. Its objective is to keep chi flowing continuously. It is helpful for those whom it's practitioners refer to as "half-healthy," meaning that their body condition is not completely balanced. This causes susceptibility to colds, stomach issues and depression. Rebalancing chi allows the body to heal itself.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Apply firm pressure. Shiatsu means "finger pressure." The technique is performed by applying finger pressure to certain points on the body. These points on the body are the pathway of chi.
2. Diagnose the problem. A Shiatsu practitioner looks for irregularities in a patient by touching the body. Things like skin problems and posture can reflect any irregularities.
3. Prescribe the appropriate treatment. Once irregularities are identified, the Shiatsu practitioner is able to determine the best method of treatment. The practitioner will stretch, rock and push the body in order to release the flow of chi and release tension.
4. Balance Yin and Yang. This is the balance of all energy that exists, including chi. Yin symbolizes light, heat and activity. Yang represents darkness, coldness and rest.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink plenty of water immediately after receiving a Shiatsu massage to help flush all of the toxins and impurities that have been released.
• Side effects that may occur when the body releases toxins are headache, stiffness and diarrhea.
• Unexpected emotional release is a common side effect as the body releases tension during a massage session.