Shiatsu massage therapy, also known as acupressure, is a massage and healing technique that focuses on the meridians of the body to support the flow of energy, or ki. The technique originated in Japan and does not involve needles, only the use of pressure from the palms of the hands, thumbs, fingers, elbows, and even knees and feet. Since its introduction to the Western world it has grown in popularity and many people have benefited from it.

The culture in which Shiatsu developed believed that one of the keys to health was the proper flow of energy, or ki, throughout the body. Energy flows through the body on specific pathways known as meridians. The goal of Shiatsu massage is to clear any energy blockages and restore a healthy flow of energy. Shiatsu is a licensed type of medical therapy in Japan, and modern Shiatsu consists of a combination of Japanese traditions, Chinese medical practices and modern knowledge of anatomy and physiology.

A typical Shiatsu massage session lasts between 30 and 60 minutes and is performed while the patient is fully clothed and does not incorporate massage oils. The patient will typically lie on a padded mat, a couch, or a Shiatsu chair, which many find to be the most convenient position. Prior to beginning the massage, the practitioner will interview the patient to learn about their medical history and symptoms. With this knowledge they will determine the points of the body that need to be focused on and use a variety of massage techniques to manipulate the meridians including rubbing, tapping, stretching and applied pressure. Throughout the massage at least one of the practitioner’s hands, known as the mother hand, is in contact with the body.

Patients claim many benefits from the massages and often continue to receive them even after their symptoms have subsided. A paper published by Andrew Long of the University of Leeds School of Healthcare reported that many patients showed a statistically significant improvement of stress levels and muscle and joint problems. Other benefits include increased energy levels, increased circulation, reduced stress, relaxed joints and increased flexibility. Some patients report muscle soreness or mild headaches after a massage, but these are normal occurrences and generally go away after a couple of hours. Many people continue to return is simply because it feels good and helps them go through each day with improved energy and well-being.

Massage therapy is a personal body treatment that is gaining popularity as a method of helping people feel naturally energized, healthy and stress-free. Several popular types of massage therapy are practiced worldwide including:

Acupressure

An acupressure massage utilizes firm pressure, slow motion kneading, hard fast rubbing, and gentle finger or hand taps applied along a person’s body. The massage targets areas of the body where energy is being blocked, thus effectively eliminating pain, illness and stress.

Balinese

Balinese massage therapy uses a combination of techniques including acupressure, gentle skin massaging and scented aromatherapy oils to help increase blood, energy and oxygen circulation within the body. The massage helps damaged areas heal quicker and promotes internal peace, wellness and deep relaxation.

Chair Massage

A chair massage uses acupressure techniques, which are focused on a person’s spine, back, shoulders, neck and arms to increase energy, alertness, and relieve stress and work-related injuries. This massage is also referred to as a seated or on-site massage.

Deep Muscle

Deep muscle massage therapy utilizes steady direct acupressure by pressing, rubbing or kneading various parts of a person’s body to relieve deep-seated pain. This massage relieves chronic tension deep within the core of the muscle and tissue, providing deep relaxation, improved personal wellness, posture and increased oxygen flow.

Facial Massage

A Facial utilizes light finger and hand pressure along a person’s face to relieve headaches, stress, sinus pressure and also promote smooth younger looking skin.

Geriatric

Geriatric massage therapy utilizes light skin rubbing and kneading in combination with joint movement to help improve a person’s blood circulation, relieve pain and increase pain-free range of motion. This type of massage is designed and primarily used for the elderly.

Jamu

Jamu utilizes acupressure techniques such as pressing, rubbing and kneading a person’s skin in combination with fresh flowers, scented oils and soft soothing music in a dimly lit secluded room. This massage provides complete relaxation and increases inner harmony and energy circulation.

Medical

A medical massage utilizes multiple techniques with the goal of resolving a person’s discomfort due to diseases and other afflictions. This massage technique is often necessary to improve painful medical conditions.

Oncology

Oncology massage therapy utilizes acupressure techniques along various parts of the body to aid in the recovery process for people who have been diagnosed with cancer.

Sports

A sports massage uses forceful pressure applied to a person’s muscles and deep tissue using elbows, fingers, fists, hands and knuckles. This massage enhances sports performance through injury prevention and recovery.