What is Shiatsu Massage?

The following was an assignment given to me while I was attending massage school in 2007.  We were told to write a 1 page paper regarding the basic explanation of Shiatsu Massage. 

Shiatsu massage is based on traditional Chinese medicine. It is a form of acupressure massage that came from Japan in the early 20^th century. The translation for shiatsu is; shi – meaning finger, atsu – meaning pressure. Shiatsu massage is based on working on the body’s meridian system. A meridian system is a system of interconnecting pathways that run throughout the body. People believe that the “chi”, or life force energy, runs through these pathways. They also believe that if the “chi” is able to run smoothly through the body, one can remain healthy and their body will remain in balance. When there is a blockage of the “chi”, the body becomes unbalanced, or disease may occur.

Shiatsu massage is traditionally done on a mat on the floor, but there are options for a client that may have limitations. The massage can also be performed on a low table, chair, or while the client is lying on their side. The client remains fully clothed, in loose fitting comfortable clothing, removing only their shoes, glasses, and jewelry. Oils and lotions are not used during a shiatsu massage. The session will take about 50 minutes to complete, it can be a full body session or work can be focused on specific areas where the client may feel it is needed most.

There are different techniques used throughout the shiatsu massage session; point work (Huato points, meridian points, and Tsubo points) is the main technique used. Softening, stretching, joint rotation and percussion are other techniques used during a shiatsu massage. During these techniques, there will be some pressure felt by the client. This pressure can be adjusted to the client’s tolerance level.

Benefits of a shiatsu massage may be felt right away, it may take some time, or even multiple sessions before the client may feel the full effect of the massage. Clients have found shiatsu massage not only to be fun, but very relaxing as well as energizing. It can also help lower stress levels, increase flexibility, decrease pain, and improve blood circulation. Shiatsu is also believed to help balance the chi, as well as release toxins from the body.