Japanese Massage
Japanese massage is also known as Shiatsu, or “finger pressure.” It relies on the theory that energy points facilitate the flow of positive and negative energy (Yin and Yang), and that blockages between these points can lead to unhealthy balances in the body’s energy levels. It relies on a method known as acupressure—applying pressure directly with the fingers over these energy points—to return the body to a natural harmony by removing these obstructions in the energy channels, or “meridians.” The practice is used to treat a range of diseases, including muscle pains, back pains, headaches, migraines, whiplash injuries and neck stiffness, stress, and depression. It can also help recuperation from sports injuries, or as part of a long-term physiotherapy program.
Shiatsu has been practiced in Japan for at least a thousand years, and comparison has been made to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques that feature the same basic principle. Indeed, some argue that Shiatsu itself is directly based on Chinese teachings. The term ‘Shiatsu’ was first coined in 1915 by the famed author and practitioner Tenpaku Tamai, and is officially defined by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare as “the use of fingers and palm of one's hand to apply pressure to particular sections on the surface of the body for the purpose of correcting the imbalances of the body, and for maintaining and promoting health. It is also a method contributing to the healing of specific illnesses.”
Practitioners of Shiatsu also use their knowledge of the subject to make diagnoses, in much the same way that a conventional or TCM doctor does. Using their palms, fingers and thumbs to detect stiffness, slackness, or other irregularities in the muscle, doctors work out which energy points are affected and provide the requisite treatment.
Based on the initial diagnosis and on physical and visual feedback gained during the session, the practitioner will seek to even out the perceived energy imbalances throughout the body. Shiatsu is a holistic treatment, encompassing the whole body rather than just focusing on trouble spots, and a Shiatsu massage normally encompasses some degree of all-over body work.
Shiatsu can be used to help the body back to health after a period of illness or injury, or to help recovery and control of long-term ailments. The practice should not, however, be seen as any degree of a miracle cure. Think of it rather as an aid to recovery and a complementary form of therapy to encourage the body back to perfect health.
If you plan to attend a Shiatsu therapist, remember that the massage works best if you are relaxed and calm. The first time can feel a little bit odd, but don’t be perturbed—trust your doctor, close your eyes, and let yourself relax. The doctor will do all the work required and will move your body as necessary, so you can just take the time to reflect, meditate, or do whatever makes you comfortable. Shiatsu massages take place fully clothed, so be sure to wear loose, comfortable apparel such as a t-shirt and jogging pants.
