Top Shiatsu Massage Therapy resources
by Kristy Annely

With an increase in the harmful effects of antibiotic drugs many people are now turning towards alternative forms of healing and cure. Massage, as a form of touch therapy is perhaps the most ancient method of healing. It comforts and eases the body, composes the mind and promotes a sense of well being. Shiatsu, a Japanese system of healing through bodywork, is one such form.

Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on curative therapy. It helps in curing an extensive range of ailments from definite injuries to more broad symptoms of poor health. Shiatsu is a deeply soothing experience and customary Shiatsu sessions help to thwart the build up of tension. The hands and fingers of a trained therapist are sensitive enough to detect irregularity in the skin or muscles. Analyzing the body heat on contact can also identify problems and thus it becomes easy to pinpoint irregularities and decide on a suitable course of treatment.

Treatment with Shiatsu is effective because it firstly deals with the body as a whole. This proves to be effective since everything in the body is connected and every part and section impacts another. It is after this that a focus is made on the local area that needs more attention.

The philosophy primary in Shiatsu is that critical energy (known as Ki in Japanese) flows throughout the body in a series of channels known as meridians. The meridians form a nonstop circuit of lines that permit the flow of diverse aspects of Ki all over the body. A Shiatsu practitioner uses a variety of techniques to improve the energy flow. Shiatsu finger practice involves tapping, squeezing and rubbing movements. The application of pressure is generally localized. This is because the entire palm is never used during the treatment. Common conditions helped by Shiatsu include back pain, headaches and migraines, whiplash injuries, neck stiffness, joint pain and reduced mobility. It is also effective in curing menstrual problems, digestive problems, asthmatic symptoms, sports injuries and depression.