How To

How to Give a Shiatsu Massage

By Jonae Fredericks, eHow Editor
Rate: (2 Ratings)

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage involving finger and palm pressure. It is based on the idea that the body is surrounded by a type of "electro magnetic" energy also known as "chi." Through the art of Shiatsu, it is believed that our bodies can be relieved of physical ailments such as, stress, poor circulation and muscle aches. The following instructions will teach you how to give an incredible Shiatsu massage.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

    The Techniques

  1. Step 1

    Pressure is the technique behind this form of massage. This is achieved through the use of the palms of your hands, knees, feet and the strongest pressure can be achieved by using your elbows. The thumbs can be used to apply pressure to the "acupressure" points.

  2. Step 2

    To begin, see that the massage patient is comfortably dressed and ask that they lie on the floor where you have placed the towels.Patient should be lying on their stomach for the back massage. Allow the patient's head to rest on the pillow provided and place your hands gently on their shoulders.

  3. Step 3

    The neck and shoulder area is the ideal place to begin your massage. Kneading and applying pressure with your hands, will begin to relax the patient. Become in sync with your patient, transferring your positive chi to them as you massage their tired muscles. You can then continue to the forearms, firmly pressing all the muscles and relieving the body's tension as you move further down the back.

  4. Step 4

    Continue down the back, massaging each muscle with your palms and working out the tightest muscles with even stronger pressure applied by use of your knees and elbows. Standing above the patient, you can also use your feet for intense pressure.

  5. Step 5

    Other methods used in Shiatsu such as, manipulation, kneading, pounding and stretching of the muscles will heighten the pleasures of the massage. Use of the above methods will ensure a wonderful Shiatsu massage experience for any patient.

Tips & Warnings
  • Shiatsu massage is a useful approach to relieve many body ailments. Unfortunately, there are some individuals that may not benefit from it's use. It may even be dangerous to some. Therefore, it is suggested that pregnant women, those with heart conditions, history of blood clots, recent surgery patients and those with skin conditions or bruising, should not participate in this form of massage.

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