Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a form of Alternative medicine that originated in Japan and is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese medicine, as practiced by Masunaga Hiroshi and Tamai Tempaku. It is a holistic approach to health that aims to balance the flow of Qi in the body, similar to Acupuncture and Tuina. Shiatsu is often used in conjunction with other forms of Complementary therapy, such as Herbalism and Aromatherapy, as recommended by National Institutes of Health and World Health Organization. Practitioners of Shiatsu, like Tokujiro Namikoshi and Shizuto Masunaga, have developed various techniques and styles, including Zen Shiatsu and Macrobiotic Shiatsu, which are influenced by Buddhism and Macrobiotics.

Introduction

Shiatsu is a form of Manual therapy that involves the application of pressure to specific points on the body, similar to Acupressure and Reflexology. It is often used to treat a range of health conditions, including Chronic pain, Anxiety disorder, and Depression (mood), as studied by Harvard University and University of California, Los Angeles. Shiatsu is also used to promote relaxation and reduce Stress (biology), as recommended by American Psychological Association and National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Many Spas and Wellness centers, such as Cal-a-Vie Health Spa and Miraval Resort & Spa, offer Shiatsu as a treatment option, alongside other therapies like Massage therapy and Yoga.

History

The history of Shiatsu is closely tied to the development of Traditional Japanese medicine, which was influenced by Chinese medicine and Korean medicine. The concept of Qi and the use of Meridian (Chinese medicine)s are central to Shiatsu, and were first described by Huangdi and Zhang Zhongjing. The modern version of Shiatsu was developed in the early 20th century by Tamai Tempaku and Masunaga Hiroshi, who were influenced by Western medicine and Anatomy. The development of Shiatsu was also influenced by the work of Irie Tamura and Katsusuke Serizawa, who were pioneers in the field of Japanese massage.

Principles

The principles of Shiatsu are based on the concept of Qi and the flow of energy in the body, as described by Laozi and Zhuangzi. Shiatsu practitioners believe that the flow of Qi can become blocked or imbalanced, leading to health problems, and that the application of pressure to specific points can help to restore balance and promote healing, as studied by University of Tokyo and Kyoto University. The principles of Shiatsu are also influenced by the concept of Yin and yang and the Five elements (Chinese philosophy), which are central to Traditional Chinese medicine and Taoism. Many Shiatsu practitioners, such as Stephen Birch and Ted Kaptchuk, have written extensively on the principles and practice of Shiatsu, and have developed new techniques and approaches, such as Shiatsu massage and Shiatsu therapy.

Techniques

Shiatsu techniques involve the application of pressure to specific points on the body, using the fingers, palms, and thumbs, as demonstrated by Shiatsu masters like Masunaga Hiroshi and Tokujiro Namikoshi. The techniques used in Shiatsu are similar to those used in Acupressure and Tuina, and involve the use of Meridian (Chinese medicine)s and Acupuncture points. Shiatsu practitioners may also use Stretching and Mobilization techniques to help restore balance and promote healing, as recommended by American Massage Therapy Association and National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. Many Shiatsu practitioners, such as Clifford Kuhn and Saul Goodman, have developed their own unique styles and approaches, which are influenced by Western massage and Sports massage.

Benefits_and_Risks

The benefits of Shiatsu include the relief of Chronic pain and Stress (biology), as well as the promotion of relaxation and well-being, as studied by University of California, San Francisco and University of Oxford. Shiatsu may also be beneficial for a range of health conditions, including Anxiety disorder, Depression (mood), and Insomnia, as recommended by National Institute of Mental Health and World Health Organization. However, Shiatsu is not without risks, and may be contraindicated for certain health conditions, such as Pregnancy and Cancer, as warned by American Cancer Society and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Many Shiatsu practitioners, such as Elaine Stillerman and Benjamin Shield, have written about the benefits and risks of Shiatsu, and have developed guidelines for safe and effective practice, as published by Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies and Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

Training_and_Certification

Shiatsu training and certification programs are available in many countries, including Japan, United States, and United Kingdom, as offered by International Shiatsu Association and Shiatsu Society. These programs typically involve a combination of theoretical and practical training, and may include coursework in Anatomy, Physiology, and Traditional Chinese medicine, as taught by University of Westminster and Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. Many Shiatsu practitioners, such as Carola Beresford-Cooke and Pamela Ferguson, have developed their own training programs and certification schemes, which are recognized by National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council. Category:Massage