An Explanation and History of Shiatsu



Posted: Wednesday, April 13, 2011

by Ellie Garwood

The word Shiatsu literally means finger pressure, in Shiatsu massage therapy however, other parts of the anatomy are commonly used, such as arms, palms and thumbs, and even knees and feet. The term itself is a relatively new one, only dating back to the turn of the twentieth century. The practice of Shiatsu, however, has been recorded as far back as four thousand years, to the beginnings of acupuncture (which originated in China).

Shiatsu is much more than just a massage technique, it is concerned with the mind-body connection and is steeped in ancient Eastern philosophy, dealing heavily with chi, or Ki, the vital life force, and energy flow. As with acupuncture Shiatsu has its foundations in meridians; meridians are lines through the body through which energy flows. The meridians have been described as extensions of our organs, and are named after the twelve internal organs. Within the meridians there are trigger points, sometimes described as canal gateways, called acupoints, which, through touch, can be stimulated. It is when the Ki becomes blocked that illness or disease can result. Shiastu can benefit, however, no matter what someone’s state of health, as practitioners pick up on imbalances of Ki which can often precede disease symptoms, helping to prevent ill health.

In addition to this Shiatsu deals heavily with the five elements of earth, fire, wood, metal and water, these are elements that we ourselves possess, as well as the outside world. Shiatsu practice states how these elements all need to be in harmony to achieve good health.

Unlike more tradition forms of massage, such as Swedish massage, Shiatsu is performed with the client fully clothed and without oils, usually on a yoga mat, or couch. It is most easily performed if the client wears light, unrestrictive clothing, such as might be worn when undertaking yoga or Pilates. Varying degrees of pressure is used by the practitioner as they work across the entire body, occasionally asking the client to move into new positions.

Today Shiatsu has grown massively, and within the practice there are different styles and philosophies. Some practitioners concentrate on pressure on acupoints, while others work along the meridian lines. The types most commonly practiced in the UK include Zen Shiatsu, Macrobiotic Shiatsu, Healing Shiatsu, Namikoshi Shiatsu, Movement Shiatsu and Hara Shiatsu.

Those interested in training in Shiatsu, can undertake a range of courses, depending of the level of comprehensiveness they desire. Courses can be as little as two-to-three days and as long as three-years if you are interested in gaining a Practitioner Diploma. Diplomas are gained through practical and theory assessment, and a knowledge of Western anatomy and physiology is a must, along with Eastern philosophy. Self-development exercises and case histories are another important aspect of the course. So broad is the course you’ll need various anatomy books, as well as Shiatsu theory and practice books, and books on Traditional Chinese Medicine, from which Shiatsu has its roots.
Ellie Garwood is a freelance writer interested in a host of topics. For a host of complementary medicine, and physical therapy related anatomy books she recommends the range available at Lotus Publishing.
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