What Is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is an ancient form of oriental therapy that involves using a combination of pressure techniques, similar to massage. With acupuncture, needles are used to apply pressure. With shiatsu, on the other hand, the fingers are primarily used to apply pressure.

Apart from the fingers, shiatsu practitioners use their palms, knuckles, knees, feet and elbows to apply pressure to the body. This pressure assists with stress reduction, increased circulation and may also help reduce blood pressure.
The main aim of shiatsu is to stimulate circulation and flow of lymphatic fluids, which assists with the release of toxins in the body. Shiatsu is often referred to as "Zen Shiatsu".

With shiatsu, stretching is combined with finger pressure, as apposed to traditional massage, which uses kneading. Shiatsu is believed to unblock or release energy that is either stored or unbalanced within the human body.

Practitioners work with two forms of energy forces: Yin or negative balance and yang or positive balance. Shiatsu practice is usually performed with the patient lying down on the floor, or on a mat. The pressure is then applied, balancing your yin and yang energies.

Shiatsu treatments may be given to treat a variety of problems, including respiratory problems, headaches, cramps and digestive problems. It can also be used to balance out energy levels.