What Is Shiatsu ? A Journey Through Japan's Healing Touch

The Art of Finger Pressure

The word Shiatsu (from “shi” = finger and “atsu” = pressure) means literally “finger pressure” in Japanese. It is a therapeutic practice rooted in the traditional Chinese and Japanese Medicine for centuries. It involves applying pressure using fingers, thumbs, palms, and sometimes elbows or knees to stimulate the body's energy flow, known as Ki in Japanese or Qi in Chinese.

This non-invasive therapy aims to restore balance within the body, promoting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By targeting specific points along the body's energy pathways, or meridians, Shiatsu helps alleviate tension, improve circulation, and enhance the body's natural healing abilities.

A Brief History of Shiatsu

The foundations of Shiatsu trace back to ancient Chinese medicine, which introduced concepts like Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, and the flow of the Vital Energy (known as Chi or Qi in Chinese and Ki in Japanese) through meridians. These ideas made their way to Japan around the 6th century AD, influencing various healing practices.

One such practice was Anmo, a form of massage performed mainly by the blinds, that was recognised for being quite useful for relaxation. Japanese refined the Anmo Chinese massage techniques into their own technique of massage calling it “Anma”. Over time, Anma evolved, integrating Western anatomical knowledge and leading to the development of Shiatsu in the early 20th century.

In 1919, Tamai Tempaku published "Shiatsu Ho," combining Anma techniques with Western anatomy and physiology. Later, Tokujiro Namikoshi played a pivotal role in formalising Shiatsu, establishing the Nippon Shiatsu Institute in Tokyo in 1940. His approach emphasised the connection between physical pressure and the body's internal systems.

Shizuto Masunaga, a student of Namikoshi, further expanded Shiatsu's scope by integrating traditional Eastern philosophies, resulting in Zen Shiatsu, which focuses on holistic healing and is widely practiced today.

The Philosophy Behind Shiatsu

Shiatsu is grounded in the belief that a balanced flow of Ki is essential for health. Disruptions in this energy flow can lead to physical or emotional ailments. By applying pressure to specific points along the meridians, Shiatsu aims to:

• Restore energy balance between Yin and Yang

• Enhance the function of internal organs

• Promote relaxation and reduce stress

• Stimulate the body's self-healing mechanisms

The 12 primary meridians correspond to different organs and are associated with the Five Elements:

• Metal: Lung and Large Intestine

• Earth: Spleen and Stomach

• Fire: Heart and Small Intestine + Pericardium and Triple Energiser

• Water: Kidney and Urinary Bladder

• Wood: Liver and Gall Bladder

Each element and organ pair also relates to specific emotional and psychological aspects, highlighting the interconnectedness of body and mind in Shiatsu philosophy.

What to Expect During a Shiatsu Session

A typical Shiatsu session begins with a consultation to assess your health, lifestyle, and any specific concerns. The practitioner may perform an abdominal diagnosis, known as Hara, to evaluate energy flow and identify imbalances.

Sessions usually last between 40 to 60 minutes and are conducted on a futon or mat on the floor. Clients remain fully clothed in comfortable attire. The practitioner uses various techniques, including:

• Rhythmic slow pressure along meridians

• Gentle stretching and joint mobilization

• Breathing coordination to enhance relaxation

The experience is generally calming, and many clients report feeling both relaxed and invigorated afterward.

Benefits of Shiatsu Therapy

Shiatsu offers a range of benefits, including:

• Stress reduction and emotional balance

• Relief from muscle tension and stiffness

• Improved circulation and lymphatic flow

• Enhanced immune system function

• Support for digestive health

• Alleviation of headaches and migraines

• Assistance with sleep disorders and fatigue

It's also used as a complementary therapy for various conditions, such as:

• Anxiety and depression

• Chronic pain

• Menstrual issues

By addressing both physical and emotional aspects, Shiatsu contributes to overall well-being and can be an integral part of a holistic health regimen.

In Japan, Shiatsu is recognised and integrated into the national healthcare system. Its popularity has spread globally, with practitioners offering services in clinics, wellness centers, and hospitals.

In the UK, Shiatsu is available through various health foundations, charities, and even some NHS trusts, providing support for patients undergoing treatment for diverse health issues.

Conclusion: Embracing the Healing Touch of Shiatsu

Shiatsu stands as a testament to the power of touch in healing. By harmonizing the body's energy flow, it fosters a state of balance that benefits both body and mind. Whether seeking relief from specific ailments or aiming to enhance overall wellness, Shiatsu offers a gentle yet profound path to health.

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Promoting Wellness ... by MMH 🌿