Benefits of Shiatsu Massage Therapy
Shiatsu massage, which is also referred to as acupressure is performed with the help of fingers where pressure is applied to various body points and its design is helpful in regulating the energy flow through the body. The shiatsu massage has been quite beneficial in balancing the body and improving the levels of energy due to the relaxing state it produces. The feet, palms, fingers or thumbs apply pressure in this technique.
The history of the massage therapy roots back to ancient China, when it was found around 530 B.C. This technique was then used in the medical practices and aspects. With the moving times, this technique was spread in other countries like Korea, Japan and other Southeast Asian regions. Late, by the 20th century, this practice became very popular and the masseurs were granted licenses for practicing Shiatsu massage. It was only around 1979, that this massage technique gathered a place in Australia, Europe and U.S.A.
This form of massage is performed on simple mats which are padded, lain over the floor, and lasts from 40 to 60 minutes. It is initiated with subtle stretches and manipulating the skin to enhance the energy flow and muscle relaxation. The pressure applied during the sessions may vary based on the individual’s resistance, as any excess pressure applied may be painful for the individual. In general, not too high pressure is applied in round motions of hands during acupressure techniques for around 5 to 15 minutes. Such techniques usually comprise of vibration, percussion, kneading and rubbing.
The shiatsu massages have been used for relaxation purposes and even common problems and diseases. The five major advantages of shiatsu massages are as follows:
Skin- The acupressure technique of massaging improves the energy flow within capillaries of the soft tissues of the skin. Apart from this, this form of massage has also been effective in stimulating the sebum secretion which ensures a smooth and glowing skin. This also makes the skin more resilient and is helpful in preventing any creases o form on the skin.
Muscle Pain and Rheumatoid Arthritis- The acupressure and shiatsu massages have contributed vastly in improving arthritis problems. A chronic irritation in the tissues of the body, which also affect the joint linings, also referred to as ‘Rheumatoid arthritis’, has been seen to improve with these techniques. 1% of the total population of the world has been estimated to be affected by this problem. The shiatsu massages have been very effective in case an individual is affected by Rheumatoid arthritis, and the techniques are implemented on the affected area apart from the hands and feet of the individual. The technique has also provided benefits in muscular pains and provides nutrition to the muscles by increased circulation.
Migraine Headaches- When the blood vessels in the head or the brain are widened or narrowed, they may lead to migraines, and may be very irritating and painful. Migraine can be determined by vision problems, numbness, weakness, sensitivity to light and sound and nausea. The common factors responsible for migraine are caffeine, nitrate contained food, hunger, stress and climatic conditions. The massage technique of Shiatsu has been very helpful and effective in cases of migraines, as the body feels relaxed, and the blood circulation through the body is increased.
Pregnancy-Lots of women suffer menstrual depressions and cramps, and for several hundred years, the shiatsu massage has been beneficial to such women. Apart from this, the technique has also been useful during pregnancy periods, as it has supported the baby to turn around inside the womb. Morning sicknesses and overdue labor have also been seen to have been affected by this massage therapy.
Digestive and Circulatory System- The shiatsu technique has been noticed to be beneficial for the digestive and circulatory system of the body. They have been helpful in eliminating waste food and have increased the circulation of the cellular nutrition within the body. Fat metabolism and stored energy reserves because of these techniques have also improved the stamina of an individual.
You can consider learning these techniques with the aid of videos and books and has proved multiple benefits in different aspects in the home. It is always recommended to choose a qualified masseur for this therapy with at least 3 years experience. The whole session may last between 30 to 90 minutes and the cost for the same may vary from twenty dollars to eighty dollars based on the practitioner’s experience
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