There’s almost nothing better (other than wellness travel!) than a good massage to forget about life’s stressors for a while. Finding one that works for you is the key – here’s what to expect from a shiatsu massage and why it’s worth it.
What Is Involved in a Shiatsu Massage?
Japan has been the epicentre in finding alternative treatments to medicine, with shiatsu massage being one of their gifts to the world. Shiatsu combines traditional Japanese manual treatments, such as acupuncture and anma, a historic Japanese massage practice, with a twist of western medicine.
Medical experts see shiatsu massages as a modified method of acupressure. This massage treatment includes pressing certain areas on the body to relieve stress and weariness by boosting blood and lymphatic circulation.
The foundation of shiatsu is from the notion of qi. Qi is the fundamental life energy that propels all of life in traditional Chinese medicine.
It’s assumed that when qi flows freely, your health will flourish. Symptoms such as bodily soreness, headaches, and digestive difficulties emerge when it becomes insufficient or obstructed.
What Happens During the Massage?
All massage disciplines differ, so it’s nice to know what you’re getting into before you lay on the table. A shiatsu practitioner assesses the client and evaluates the person’s status of qi before the session starts.
Depending on the person’s overall energy level, the prevalence of blockages, and other circumstances, the practitioner may go in several different directions.
When an individual’s energy levels are low, the practitioner may adopt procedures to reawaken or promote blood and qi circulation.
When reawakening qi, the practitioner may use tactics to dissipate surplus energy in worried and disturbed persons by holding, kneading, and stretching their joints with their fingers, palms, and knees.
The massage therapist may urge you to shift positions to remove difficult-to-reach blockages to restore your qi. Shiatsu practitioners don’t use oils or special equipment—it’s just you, the therapist, and a mat.
Benefits With a Side of Caution
Other than promoting relaxation, shiatsu massages include several benefits that help all parts of your body. While it helps overcome fatigue and chronic pain, it can also assist an athlete with rehabilitation.
If you’re stuffy from a cold or struggle with asthma, a shiatsu massage might be the remedy you need. Lastly, a shiatsu massage can improve your poor posture, leading to joint problems and muscle tension.
Some folks worry that a shiatsu massage will be painful, especially if they have misconceptions about the therapy. On most occasions, you will walk away feeling fresh and limber. However, the intense and acute pressure could have lingering effects. Consult a medical professional if the pain lasts longer than two days.
Now that you know what to expect when receiving a shiatsu massage, determine if booking an appointment is your next move. Since the practice has been around for centuries, there’s plenty of evidence to support its pain and stress-relieving capabilities, allowing you to keep a positive flow.
