While shiatsu focuses on pressure points, Swedish massage focuses on the muscles and connective tissues. Moreover, the techniques in Swedish massage require the use of oil. However, Swedish massage involves techniques that differ from those used in shiatsu, including effleurage, petrissage, percussion, and friction. Shiatsu and Swedish massage both use the hands and palms to do manual movements with the body. However, it also features techniques distinct from other classic forms of massage. Shiatsu shares similarities with other types of massage. It was also effective in inducing spontaneous labor in women with post-term pregnancy. A 2021 study found the same effects for veterans and their family members. Similar studies found the technique effective for young athletes who suffered from sports-related concussions. Hand self-shiatsu, a self-application form of shiatsu, also promoted sleep in young individuals with chronic pain. However, a 2019 study found that combining shiatsu with standard treatment for low back pain improves symptoms and quality of life shortly after the session. There is limited scientific research to support the use of shiatsu in most of these conditions. Shiatsu is a holistic form of therapy that improves a person’s overall health by affecting their internal energy system. During a session, individuals are fully clothed and traditionally lie on a futon mat placed on a floor, but lying on a massage table is also common. Shiatsu does not use instruments or oils. They may also do more body stretches, rotations, and joint mobilizations.įrom time to time, the therapist may ask the person to change their position to allow them to work on specific meridian points to energy stagnation or blockages. Practitioners perform manual techniques such as holding, stretching, tapping, pressure, kneading, and soothing, using their thumbs, fingers, palms, and knees. ![]() Meanwhile, they may utilize techniques to diffuse excess energy in anxious and stressed individuals. The practitioner may perform varying protocols based on the person’s general energy level, presence of blockages, and conditions.įor example, when a person has deficient energy levels, the practitioner uses techniques to reactivate or stimulate the blood and qi circulation. While shiatsu translates as finger pressure, a shiatsu therapist may also use palms, elbows, and sometimes feet to apply pressure along energy lines or paths to relieve pain and tension in the body.īefore the session begins, a shiatsu practitioner evaluates the person and assesses a person’s state of qi to plan the session. Learn more about the concept of qi deficiency here.Ī shiatsu therapist applies pressure on the body’s meridians, parts of the body believed to be energy channels, to balance or unblock the flow of energy (qi). When it becomes deficient or blocked, symptoms such as body pain, headaches, and digestive issues arise. ![]() It believes that health occurs when qi flows unobstructed. In traditional Chinese medicine, qi is the vital life force that drives all life activity. Shiatsu has its roots in the concept of qi. Healthcare professionals view shiatsu as a modified form of acupressure, a massage therapy that involves pressing specific points in the body to reduce tension and fatigue by improving blood and lymphatic circulation. It integrates Japan’s traditional manual therapies such as acupuncture and anma, an old Japanese massage style, with western medical knowledge. Shiatsu is a bodywork that originated in Japan. Share on Pinterest Fabio Principe/EyeEm/Getty Images
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