Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork.

The word shiatsu means "finger pressure", and

shiatsu is sometimes described as a finger pressure massage.
How Does Shiatsu Work?
Like acupuncture, shiatsu is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine,
where illness is thought to result from imbalances in the natural flow of energy, or qi
(pronounced "chee") through the body.
Shiatsu therapists use finger and palm pressure to energetic pathways, called meridians to
improve the flow of qi.
A scientific explanation is that shiatsu calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system,
which improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles, and alleviates stresss.
What Does Shiatsu Feel Like?
The shiatsu therapist applies pressure using his or her fingers, thumbs, and/or palms in a
continuous rhythmic sequence.
The pressure feels more localized, because unlike other types of massage, the finger pads are
used to apply pressure for most of the treatment instead of the entire palm.
Certain pressure points may feel tender, which some people describe it as "good pain."
If you feel any discomfort or pain during the treatment, tell your therapist and he or she will
adjust the pressure so that it is comfortable to you.
Most people say shiatsu is as relaxing as a classic forms of massage therapy.
What Should I Expect During My Visit?
The treatment is done on a low massage table or on the floor.

Unlike other forms of massage, with shiatsu no massage oil is applied, so you remain fully
clothed during the treatment. You may be asked to bring comfortable clothing to wear.
Uses For Shiatsu
Relaxation
Back pain
Headache
Premenstrual syndrome
Anxiety
Insomnia
Neck and shoulder pain
Tiredness
Recovery from injuries
Stress
Arthritis pain
Poor digestion
Constipation
Depression
Precautions
Shiatsu is often not recommended for certain people such as those with the following
conditions:
infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
immediately after surgery
immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
people with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before having shiatsu
prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart
disease, check with your doctor before having shiatsu
pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting any
type of massage or bodywork. Shiatsu in pregnant women should be done by massage
therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.
shiatsu should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors,
abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.
Additional Tips
t eat a heavy meal before the shiatsu
necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and
relax before starting the shiatsu

Definition
Shiatsu is a manipulative therapy developed in Japan and incorporating techniques
of anma (Japanese traditional massage),acupressure, stretching, and Western massage.
Shiatsu involves applying pressure to special points or areas on the body in order to maintain
physical and mental well being, treat disease, or alleviate discomfort. This therapy is
considered holistic because it attempts to treat the whole person instead of a specific medical
complaint. All types of acupressure generally focus on the same pressure points and so-called
energy pathways, but may differ in terms of massage technique. Shiatsu, which can be
translated as finger pressure, has been described as needle-free acupuncture.
Purpose
Shiatsu has a strong reputation for reducing stress and relieving nausea and vomiting. Shiatsu
is also believed to improve circulation and boost the immune system. Some people use it to
treat diarrhea, indigestion, constipation, and other disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
menstrual and menopausal problems; chronic pain; migraine; arthritis; toothache; anxiety;
and depression. Shiatsu can be used to relieve muscular pain or tension, especially neck and
back pain. It also appears to have sedative effects and may alleviate insomnia. In a broader
sense, shiatsu is believed to enhance physical vitality and emotional well being.
Description
Origins
Shiatsu is an offshoot of anma that developed during the period after the Meiji Restoration in
1868. Traditional massage (anma) used during the age of shoguns was being criticized, and
practitioners of koho anma (ancient way) displeased with it introduced new practices and new
names for their therapies.
During the twentieth century, shiatsu distinguished itself from anma through the merging of
Western knowledge of anatomy, koho anma,ampuku (abdominal massage), acupressure, Do-
In (breathing practices), and Buddhism. Based on the work of Tamai Tempaku, shiatsu
established itself in Japan and worldwide. The Shiatsu Therapists Association was founded in
1925 and clinics and schools followed. Students of Tempaku began teaching their own brand
of shiatsu, creating branch disciplines. By 1955, the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare
acknowledged shiatsu as a beneficial treatment, and licensing was established for
practitioners.
Shiatsu and other forms of Japanese acupressure are based on the concept of ki, the Japanese
term for the all-pervading energy that flows through everything in the universe. (This notion
is borrowed from the Chinese, who refer to the omnipresent energy as qi or chi.) Ki tends to
flow through the body along special energy pathways called meridians, each of which is
associated with a vital organ. In Asian systems of traditional medicine, diseases are often
believed to occur due to disruptions in the flow this energy through the body. These
disruptions may stem from emotional factors, climate, or a host of other causes including
stress, the presence of impurities in the body, and physical trauma.
The aim of shiatsu is to restore the proper flow of bodily energy by massaging the surface of
the skin along the meridian lines. Pressure may also be applied to any of the 600 or so
acupoints. Acupoints, which are supposedly located just under the skin along the meridians,
are tiny energy structures that affect the flow of ki through the body. When ki either stagnates
and becomes deflected or accumulates in excess along one of these channels, stimulation to
the acupoints, which are sensitive to pressure, can unblock and regulate the ki flow through
toning or sedating treatment.
Western medicine has not proven the existence of meridians and acupoints. However, in one
study, two French medical doctors conducted an experiment at Necher Hospital in Paris to
test validity of the theory that energy is being transported along acupuncture meridians. They
injected and traced isotpes with gamma-camera imaging. The meridians may actually
correspond to nerve transmission lines. In this view, shiatsu and other forms of healing
massage may trigger the emission of naturally occurring chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Release of these chemical messengers may be responsible for some of the therapeutic effects
associated with shiatsu, such as pain relief.
Preparations
People usually receive shiatsu therapy while lying on a floor mat or massage table or sitting
up. The massage is performed through the clothingpreferably a thin garment made from
natural fibersand disrobing is not required. Pressure is often applied using the thumbs,
though various other parts of the body may be employed, including fingertips, palms,
knuckles, elbows, and kneessome therapists even use their feet. Shiatsu typically consists
of sustained pressure (lasting up to 10 seconds at a time), squeezing, and stretching exercises.
It may also involve gentle holding as well as rocking motions. A treatment session lasts
anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes.
Before shiatsu treatment begins, the therapist usually performs a general health assessment.
This involves taking a family medical history and discussing the physical and emotional
health of the person seeking therapy. Typically, the practitioner also conducts a diagnostic
examination by palpating the abdomen or back for any energy imbalances present in other
parts of the body.
Precautions
While shiatsu is generally considered safe, there are a few precautions to consider. Because it
may increase blood flow, this type of therapy is not recommended in people with bleeding
problems, heart disease, or cancer. Massage therapy should always be used with caution in
those with osteoporosis, fresh wounds or scar tissue, bone fractures, or inflammation.
Applying pressure to areas of the head is not recommended in people with epilepsy or high
blood pressure, according to some practitioners of shiatsu.
Shiatsu is not considered effective in the treatment of fever, burns, and infectious diseases.
Shiatsu should not be performed right after a meal.
Side effects
When performed properly, shiatsu is not associated with any significant side effects. Some
people may experience mild discomfort, which usually disappears during the course of the
treatment session.
Research and general acceptance
Like many forms of massage, shiatsu is widely believed to have a relaxing effect on the body.
There is also a significant amount of research suggesting that acupressure techniques can
relieve nausea and vomiting associated with a variety of causes, includingpregnancy and
anesthetics and other drugs. In one study, acupressure was shown to significantly reduce the
effects of nausea in 12 of 16 women suffering from morning sickness. Five days of this
therapy also appeared to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Another investigation, published
in 1999, studied the effects of acupressure on nausea resulting from the use of anesthetics.
Pressure applied to an acupoint on the inside of the wrist appeared to alleviate nausea in
patients who received anesthetics during the course of laparoscopic surgery.
Key terms
Acupressure An ancient form of Asian healing massage that involves applying pressure
to special points or areas on the body in order to maintain good health, cure disease, and
restore vitality.
Analgesic Pain reliever.
Osteoporosis A disease of the bones due to deficiency of bone matrix, occurring most
frequently in postmenopausal women.
Palpate Feel.
Shiatsu may also produce sedative and analgesic effects. The sedative powers of acupressure
were investigated in a study published in the Journals of Gerontology 1999, which involved
over 80 elderly people who suffered from sleeping difficulties. Compared to the people in the
control groups, the 28 participants who received acupressure were able to sleep better. They
slept for longer periods of time and were less likely to wake up during the night. The
researchers concluded that acupressure may improve the quality of sleep in older adults. The
use of acupressure in postoperative pain was investigated in a study published in 1996. In this
study, which involved 40 knee surgery patients, one group received acupressure (15
acupoints were stimulated) while the control group received sham acupressure. Within an
hour of treatment, members of the acupressure group reported less pain than those in the
control group. The pain-relieving effects associated with acupressure lasted for 24 hours.
Shiatsu may benefit stroke victims. The results of at least one study (which did not include a
control group) suggest that shiatsu may be useful during stroke rehabilitation when combined
with other treatments.
Resources
Books
Cook, Allan R. Alternative Medicine Source book. Detroit: Omnigraphics, 1999.
Periodicals
Chen, M.L., L.C. Lin, S.C. Wu, et al. "The effectiveness of Acupressure in Improving the
Quality of Sleep of Institutionalized Residents."J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 1999: M389-
94.
Harmon, D., J. Gardiner, R. Harrison, et al. "Acupressure and the Prevention of nausea and
vomiting after laparoscopy." Br J Anaesth1999: 387-390
Organizations
Acupressure Institute. 1533 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709.
American Massage Therapy Association. 820 Davis Street, Suite 100, Evanston,
IL. http://www.amtamassage.org.
American Oriental Bodywork Therapy Association. 50 Maple Place, Manhassett, NY 11030.
International School of Shiatsu. 10 South Clinton Street, Doylestown, PA 18901.
National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. 8201 Greensboro
Drive, Suite 300, McLean, VA 22102.
Other
International School of Shiatsu. http://www.shiatsubo.com.
MEDLINE. http://igm.nlm.nih.gov.
What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a form of therapeutic bodywork from Japan. It uses kneading, pressing, soothing,
tapping, and stretching techniques and is performed without oils through light, comfortable
clothing.
"Shiatsu" translates as "finger pressure." There are different styles of Shiatsu, all of which
have roots in one of three systems that developed in Japan in the early 1900s as a result of a
resurgence of Japan's traditional medical therapies, including acupuncture and anma massage.
Shiatsu developed at this time from the integration of traditional Japanese manual therapies
with modern western medical knowledge.
In the U.S., Shiatsu is one of the main therapies within the larger profession of Asian
Bodywork Therapy.
How can Shiatsu benefit your health and wellbeing?
Shiatsu is a non-invasive therapy that may help reduce stress and contribute to overall
wellbeing. Proponents believe that it has both preventative and remedial effects.
Shiatsu can be used in the treatment of a wide range of internal, musculoskeletal,
and emotionalconditions. It is thought to reduce muscle stiffness, stimulate the skin, aid
digestion, and influence the nervous system. Shiatsu is used to treat a wide range of chronic
conditions, such as headaches, PMS, digestive disorders, fatigue, insomnia,
fibromyalgia, stress, anxiety, and muskuloskeletal pain, including low back, neck, and joint
pain.
The effect may be stimulating and invigorating or calming and sedative, depending on the
goal of the session.
What are the principles of Shiatsu?
One of the fundamental concepts of Chinese/Japanese medicine is Qi (pronounced "chee").
This is the vital energy in our body that underlies all functioning.
Qi flows in specific pathways called meridians. The Shiatsu therapist accesses the Qi through
points along the meridians called Vital Points. Health is present when there is abundant Qi in
the meridians and the flow is unobstructed. When the Qi becomes deficient or out of balance,
or the flow is obstructed, symptoms arise. Seemingly minor signs emerge, such as regular
colds and flus, weekly or daily headaches, body aches and muscular pain, or digestive
difficulties. These are indications of the imbalance of Qi. Shiatsu stimulates and harmonizes
the flow of Qi throughout the body.
The Shiatsu therapist is trained to recognize patterns of disharmony in the body, even prior to
physical signs appearing. Simple yet subtle changes are indications of an imbalance that, left
alone, may progress to a point where symptoms appear. Balance can be restored with proper
assessment and regular Shiatsu sessions. Shiatsu practitioners may also offer lifestyle and
activity recommendations.
What happens in a Shiatsu session?
At the beginning of the session, the practitioner evaluates the client to determine the patterns
of imbalance that may be present. It is important to assess the "state of the Qi" in order for the
practitioner to give the client the most effective therapeutic session. Then the practitioner
designs a plan that will give the client the most therapeutic benefit according to their
individual needs.
Shiatsu uses a variety of manual techniques, including
pressure, kneading, soothing, tapping, and stretching to access
the vital Qi of the body. In the case where the client's energy
is low or deficient, the practitioner uses specific techniques to
enhance and vitalize the Qi. When the client is over-stressed,
wound-up, or anxious, the practitioner employs techniques to
disperse the "excess" energy. In this way, the Qi is regulated.
Shiatsu works to alleviate conditions, restore balance, and
promote health.
A regular maintenance program of Shiatsu is an excellent way to maintain wellness and
improve vitality. This schedule will vary for each person. One Shiatsu session per month may
work well to maintain balance for some. But for others, a high-stress job, family demands, an
overactive lifestyle, lack of exercise, or other factors may require Shiatsu sessions on a more
regular basis.
Is there good evidence?
Shiatsu is Japan's primary manual therapy, and there is ongoing research that is published in
Japanese journals. This research is usually not published in English, and may not yet be
available to the American audience.
In the U.S., Shiatsu is often considered a subset of either massage therapy or acupuncture,
and thus, the main research grants for therapeutic bodywork have been focused on massage
and other energy therapies. Most of what is available in terms of evidence in the U.S. is
anecdotal, or it is from the experience of Shiatsu clients and therapists. However, schools and
individuals are beginning to organize research studies for Shiatsu. There is some research on
the efficacy of Shiatsu therapy currently being conducted in Europe.
But while the evidence is limited at this point, it is worthwhile to note that the risk is low and
there are significant anecdotally-reported benefits.

How to find a practitioner

The professional organization that represents Shiatsu and Asian bodywork therapists
exclusively is the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia (AOBTA). The
AOBTA website has a Find a Practitioner page.
Shiatsu and Asian Bodywork Therapists (ABT) are located throughout the United States,
often in the vicinity of a school. The highest credential for Shiatsu and ABT is the national
certification exam for Asian Bodywork Therapy administered by the National Certification
Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM). Practitioners who pass
this exam become a Diplomate of ABT. The website for NCCAOM also has a Find a
Practitioner page.
In addition, graduates from a Shiatsu program are eligible to take (if all requirements are met)
the National Certification Exam for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork from the National
Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB).
What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a holistic healing art developed in Japan and based on traditional 3500-year-old
oriental medical wisdom while incorporating the principles of anatomy, physiology and
pathology. The theory of traditional Chinese medicine proposes that energy, otherwise known
as chi, qi (or ki in Japanese), moves through the body in well-defined channels or pathways
known as meridians. Each meridian is connected to an internal organ and carries the energy
of that organs functioning. Good health is reliant upon the harmonious flow of chi through
the meridians and internal organs.

Shiatsu is a dynamic body therapy in which the therapist interacts with the receiver to restore
balance in the energy system. Imbalance, that is, too little or too much chi, can manifest in
various ailments, depending on which meridians are affected.
Like most natural therapies, shiatsu is based on the assumption that the body is a self-healing
organism, and that the role of the practitioner is to aid and support that naturally occurring
process. Shiatsu can assist an individual with their self-development and self-healing;
balancing the underlying causes of a condition and addressing physical and psychological
functions; promoting health and strengthening the bodys own healing abilities.
Although the word shiatsu translates literally from the Japanese as finger pressure, in
practice, the thumbs, palms, elbows, knees and feet are used to apply pressure to various parts
of the body. Pressure can be gentle or firm, depending on the condition being treated.
Treatment may also include the use of flowing stretches and gentle rotations of the limbs and
joints, simple structural alignments and muscle release techniques. On a physical level this
has the effect of stimulating circulation and the flow of lymphatic fluid. It also works on the
autonomic nervous system; helps to release toxins and deep-seated tension from the muscles,
and can also stimulate the hormonal system. On a subtler level shiatsu allows the receiver to
deeply relax, stimulating the bodys inherent ability for self healing and regeneration
The person receiving shiatsu remains clothed, or is covered by a sheet and treatment usually
takes place on a futon on the floor.
The effectiveness of shiatsu in maintaining balance may be supported with recommendations
regarding diet, yoga, meditation and exercise as part of an overall treatment regime.

Shiatsu adalah sebuah kata Jepang. Artinya tekanan jari. Sebuah pengobatan Shiatsu
Namun tidak menggabungkan penggunaan tidak hanya dari tekanan jari, tetapi juga ibu jari,
telapak tangan, lutut, lengan, siku dan kaki. Tekanan diterapkan pada bidang garis energi
(meridian) untuk mempromosikan kesehatan yang baik dengan merangsang aliran bodys
energi (Ki).
Panjang sesi Shiatsu
Setiap sesi Shiatsu biasanya berlangsung antara 40 menit dan 1 jam. Sesi ini biasanya terjadi
di atas tikar empuk di lantai.
Sesi sering diawali dengan peregangan lembut dan teknik manipulasi untuk membantu
merangsang pergerakan energi dan untuk mengendurkan otot. Tekanan dapat diterapkan
untuk kedua daerah yang luas serta poin tepat dan bervariasi sesuai kebutuhan tubuh.
Kadang-kadang tekanan dapat bersikap lembut dan menenangkan. Kadang-kadang tekanan
dapat sangat merangsang. Jumlah dan jenis tekanan tergantung pada kebutuhan khusus
individu.
Manfaat Shiatsu
Shiatsu dapat membantu meringankan rasa sakit yang terkait dengan berbagai kondisi.
Shiatsu juga dapat membantu seorang individu dengan pengembangan diri dan penyembuhan
diri; menyeimbangkan penyebab kondisi; dengan mempertimbangkan fungsi fisik dan
psikologis, kesehatan mempromosikan dan memperkuat kemampuan tubuh sendiri
penyembuhan.
Shiatsu adalah pengalaman yang sangat santai dan teratur Shiatsu sesi membantu mencegah
penumpukan stres dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Setelah perawatan Shiatsu, individu mungkin
memiliki perasaan vitalitas meningkat dan relaksasi.
Beberapa manfaat fisik langsung dari Shiatsu adalah untuk:
Merangsang sistem peredaran darah, limfatik dan hormon.
Mengatur aktivitas sistem saraf otonom.
Apa itu shiatsu?
Shiatsu adalah terapi kesehatan yang asal Jepang. Kata shiatsu berarti "tekanan jari", dan
shiatsu kadang-kadang digambarkan sebagai pijat tekanan jari.
Bagaimana shiatsu bekerja?
Seperti akupunktur, shiatsu didasarkan pada sistem holistik dari pengobatan tradisional
China, di mana penyakit ini diperkirakan sebagai akibat dari ketidakseimbangan dalam aliran
alami energi, atau qi (dibaca "chi") melalui tubuh.
Terapis Shiatsu menggunakan jari dan tekanan sawit ke jalur energik, disebut meridian untuk
meningkatkan aliran qi.
Penjelasan ilmiah adalah bahwa shiatsu menenangkan sistem saraf simpatik yang terlalu
aktif, yang meningkatkan sirkulasi, mengurangi otot kaku, dan meredakan stresss.
Bagaimana shiatsu rasanya?
Terapis shiatsu berlaku tekanan menggunakan jari-nya, ibu jari, dan / atau telapak tangan
dalam urutan berirama terus menerus.Tekanan terasa lebih lokal, karena tidak seperti jenis
lain dari pijat, bantalan jari digunakan untuk menerapkan tekanan untuk sebagian besar dari
pengobatan bukan telapak keseluruhan. Titik-titik tekanan tertentu mungkin merasa lembut,
yang beberapa orang menggambarkannya sebagai "nyeri yang baik." Jika Anda merasa tidak
nyaman atau sakit selama perawatan, beritahu terapis Anda dan ia akan menyesuaikan
tekanan sehingga nyaman untuk Anda. Kebanyakan orang mengatakan shiatsu adalah sebagai
santai sebagai bentuk terapi pijat klasik.
Tidak seperti bentuk lain dari pijat, shiatsu dengan tidak ada minyak pijat diterapkan,
sehingga Anda tetap berpakaian lengkap selama perawatan. Anda mungkin akan diminta
untuk membawa pakaian yang nyaman untuk dikenakan.
Shiatsu banyak digunakan untuk mengatasi beberapa jenis keluhan, seperti:
*Relaksasi
* Nyeri punggung
* Sakit kepala
* Premenstrual syndrome
* Kecemasan
* Insomnia
* Leher dan nyeri bahu
* Kelelahan
* Pemulihan dari cedera
* Stres
* nyeri Arthritis
* pencernaan Buruk
* Sembelit
* Depresi
Kewaspadaan
Shiatsu tidak dianjurkan untuk orang-orang tertentu, seperti:
* Penyakit kulit menular, ruam, atau luka terbuka
* Orang yang baru operasi
* Orang yang sdang menjalankan kemoterapi atau radiasi, kecuali direkomendasikan
oleh dokter Anda
* Penderita osteoporosis harus berkonsultasi dengan dokter mereka sebelum dipijat
shiatsu
* Rentan terhadap pembekuan darah. Ada risiko penggumpalan darah yang copot.
Jika Anda memiliki penyakit jantung, cek dengan dokter Anda sebelum shiatsu
* Wanita hamil harus memeriksa dengan dokter mereka terlebih dahulu jika mereka
mempertimbangkan untuk mendapatkan semua jenis pijat atau bodywork. Shiatsu
pada ibu hamil harus dilakukan oleh terapis pijat yang bersertifikat di pijat kehamilan.
* Shiatsu tidak harus dilakukan langsung di atas memar, kulit yang meradang, luka
yang tak tersembuhkan, tumor, hernia perut, atau daerah patah tulang baru-baru ini.
Tips tambahan
# Tidak makan makanan berat sebelum shiatsu
# Jika Anda baru pertama kali di klinik atau spa, tiba setidaknya 10 menit lebih awal
untuk menyelesaikan formulir yang diperlukan. Jika tidak, tiba 5 menit lebih awal
sehingga Anda dapat memiliki beberapa menit untuk beristirahat dan bersantai
sebelum memulai shiatsu.