Shiatsu Massage A Japanese Method
Shiatsu, a Japanese form of massage, takes its name from the Japanese words for "finger" and "pressure." Despite the name, however, the palms and thumbs can be used in Shiatsu massage as well as the fingers. Although diverse massage techniques have been practiced in Japan for many centuries, the first attempt to create a systemized form of Shiatsu came in 1940, when Tokujiro Namikoshi (1905-2000) opened the first Shiatsu school, which is still in operation today.
Tokujiro Namikoshi claimed to have first discovered Shiatsu as a boy while trying to comfort his mother, who suffered from arthritis. His method incorporated Western concepts about human anatomy and health. Some forms of Shiatsu are also inspired by the Chinese concept of "meridians," pathways through which blood and energy flow through the body. The purpose is to unblock the meridians and allow a free flow of energy. One example of Meridian Shiatsu is called "Zen Shiatsu." It developed in the mid-1970s and calls for using the fists, elbows, and knees in addition to the hands.
Other varieties of Shiatsu exist, but the defining characteristic of all forms is the application of pressure to areas of the body which have been decided upon beforehand by an assessment of the patient.
Shiatsu is held in highest official regard in Japan, where it has been recognized as a distinct form of therapy since the 1950s. In Europe, the United States, and elsewhere, Shiatsu is a recognized form of therapy requiring official certification to practice. It has been met with both criticism and acceptance. There is no hard evidence that Shiatsu massage is effective at treating any diseases, and in Europe, it is illegal for practitioners of Shiatsu to claim that their work can "heal" or "cure." On the other hand, research has indicated that undergoing Shiatsu leaves people more relaxed and less stressful, and helps lessen the symptoms of a variety of ailments, particularly those of the muscles and joints.
Tokujiro Namikoshi claimed to have first discovered Shiatsu as a boy while trying to comfort his mother, who suffered from arthritis. His method incorporated Western concepts about human anatomy and health. Some forms of Shiatsu are also inspired by the Chinese concept of "meridians," pathways through which blood and energy flow through the body. The purpose is to unblock the meridians and allow a free flow of energy. One example of Meridian Shiatsu is called "Zen Shiatsu." It developed in the mid-1970s and calls for using the fists, elbows, and knees in addition to the hands.
Other varieties of Shiatsu exist, but the defining characteristic of all forms is the application of pressure to areas of the body which have been decided upon beforehand by an assessment of the patient.
Shiatsu is held in highest official regard in Japan, where it has been recognized as a distinct form of therapy since the 1950s. In Europe, the United States, and elsewhere, Shiatsu is a recognized form of therapy requiring official certification to practice. It has been met with both criticism and acceptance. There is no hard evidence that Shiatsu massage is effective at treating any diseases, and in Europe, it is illegal for practitioners of Shiatsu to claim that their work can "heal" or "cure." On the other hand, research has indicated that undergoing Shiatsu leaves people more relaxed and less stressful, and helps lessen the symptoms of a variety of ailments, particularly those of the muscles and joints.
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