How to Choose Between Shiatsu Massage, Acupressure and Reflexology

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By deepthinkin
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Eastern Massage therapies are Beneficial

There are many flavors of Eastern bodywork therapy practiced. Shiatsu massage, Acupressure and Reflexology, the most common Eastern modalities seen on a spa menu, all share one commonality; they work on the traditional Acupuncture energy points of the body. Here are the differences you might experience to help you decide between Shiatsu Massage, Acupressure or Reflexology therapies.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

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information and YOU!

Step 1

Shiatsu Massage Treatment

Choose SHIATSU MASSAGE if you like a more rigorous and energetic massage – Shiatsu translates from the Japanese words SHI = finger and ATSU = pressure. Using finger-pressure techniques the practitioner will pin point the energy centers or points along the body’s meridians (the energy highways of the body,) with the intention of unblocking congested ki (life force energy.) This stimulation of energy enables the body to rebalance and heal. As in Acupuncture, these energy points correspond with an organ and/or body function. Blocked ki in an energy point brings dis-ease and/or pain.

Oils or lotions are unnecessary and so the client may remain clothed during a Shiatsu Massage session. The Shiatsu massage practitioner may apply pressure not only with the fingers and thumbs, but also may utilize palms, elbows, or even a knee to an energy point. The pace of a Shiatsu Massage treatment is quick relative to Acupressure.

Some benefits from Shiatsu massage are relaxation, pain relief, renewed energy and healing.

You can find a Shiatsu Massage Practitioner through the link in the resources box.
Step 2

Acupressure points

Choose ACUPRESSURE if you prefer slower and relaxing energy- Also an ancient Eastern healing art originating in China, Acupressure, like Shiatsu Massage uses finger pressure to qi points along the body’s meridians. The main difference in application is the pace of the practitioner as she moves from point to point. With Acupressure, the energy points are held for up to a minute before moving on to the next point. The session will be slow and deliberate.

Oils and lotions are not necessary for Acupressure and so the client may remain clothed.

Acupressure self help is very common for relief of headaches, nausea, and for even preventing a sneeze!

An online guide for finding Acupressure points can be found in the resource box below.
Step 3

Foot Reflexology treatment

Choose REFLEXOLOGY if you prefer limited touch – On the soles of the feet, the palms of the hand and even on the ears, the body’s systems are mapped out with “reflex areas” according to this ancient Chinese therapy.

Similar again to the methods of treatment with Shiatsu Massage and Acupressure, the fingers, knuckles, and sometimes tools are used to stimulate the reflex areas on the feet or hands or both, thus stimulating the body’s energy flow and rebalancing the body.

Generally speaking, lotions or oils are not used, though a Reflexologist may use a bit of powder or corn starch to reduce friction. Reflexology techniques may be done while sitting in a reclining chair or while on a regular massage table.

When a Reflexology practitioner finds a tender spot in the sole or palm, this is usually indicative of “energy congestion”. Direct pressure will be applied to release the congestion and allow the qi to flow again.

Reflexology may be used to reduce pain, induce deep relaxation, and promote self-healing. It is especially helpful to aid healing where trauma or injury precludes direct manipulation of the body part.

To view a typical reflexology foot map, click the link in the resource box.