Shiatsu
This web page covers the following subjects:
- A description of Shiatsu
- The benefits of Shiatsu
- What to expect in a Shiatsu session
- The different styles or 'schools' of Shiatsu
- Shiatsu licensing and regulation
- Shiatsu organizations and training
- References to various sources about Shiatsu
- Shiatsu services
Description
'shi'=finger 'atsu'=pressure
Shiatsu is a non-invasive type of massage therapy originating in Japan. Shiatsu focuses on the application of pressure to specific Shiatsu points on the body.
Although the basic application of Shiatsu applies pressure using the fingers and thumbs, some methods also use the palms of the hands, elbows and knees.
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Benefits
Shiatsu therapy can be effective in the relief of many acute and chronic conditions including:- headaches/migraines
- back pain
- neck and shoulder pain
- sciatica
- whiplash
- repetitive strain injuries
- muscle tension and spasm
- insomnia
- anxiety and depression
- sports injuries
Shiatsu can help to improve the function of your muscles and joints, strengthen your body and improve your overall health and well-being.
Regular treatment can help you to develop a natural awareness of minor imbalances in your body. These problems can be addressed before they become major health concerns.
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What to expect in a Shiatsu session
Obviously it is important to make this clear when advertising Shiatsu as a therapy, so that people are aware of the services that are being offered. We are in the process of adding extra brochures and flyers for the three categories defined here - we currently have a single publication that covers all styles.
A Shiatsu massage session will normally range between thirty and sixty minutes. Shiatsu massage is applied on a low massage table, on a massage chair or on a padded mat or futon on the floor.
The person receiving treatment remains clothed throughout a Shiatsu session (ideally, so should the practitioner...) and they should bring or wear loose and comfortable clothing as some gentle stretching is a part of the therapy.
A Shiatsu massage begins with gentle stretching and manipulation of the skin to allow the stimulation of energy and relax the muscles. The amount of pressure and tempo applied will vary as appropriate for each individual.
People being given Shiatsu therapy should not eat heavily in the two hours prior to treatment and avoid alcohol before and after treatment, and should avoid strenuous or stressful activities after the session.
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Styles
There are many styles of Shiatsu, although to simplify the issue they can be categorized into three main groups; Traditional, Meridian and Acupressure Shiatsu.
- Traditional Japanese Shiatsu is aligned with western style physiotherapy practice.
- Acupressure Shiatsu is aligned to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and its associated concepts of acupuncture points.
- Meridian Shiatsu is aligned to Traditional Chinese Medicine and its associated concepts of Qi and meridians etc.
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Licensing and Regulation
One particular style of Shiatsu has been fully incorporated into the health-care system of Japan and has been regulated as a licensed medical therapy by the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare since 1964.
In absence of formal recognition in the west, independent governing bodies have developed their own standards and certifications (some based upon the licensed Japanese model). This provides the public with a point of reference when seeking advice on Shiatsu treatment.
It is now commonplace for Shiatsu practitioners to have surpassed 2000 hours of training before they are granted certification to practice.
If a person is considering Shiatsu therapy it is important they check that the Shiatsu practitioner has been provided with certification from a recognized Shiatsu association.
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Shiatsu Organizations and Training etc.
The European Shiatsu Federation (ESF) is non-party, nondenominational and non profit-making, with the aim to advance Shiatsu as a healing therapy throughout Europe and to promote high standards of professional practice. It aims to establish throughout Europe the legal right to practice Shiatsu as an independent, self-regulating health-care method, legally available as a first choice treatment option to the public. European Shiatsu Federation
The American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia (AOBTA) is a professional membership organization which promotes Asian Bodywork Therapy (ABT) and its practitioners while honoring a diversity of disciplines. AOBTA
The S.T.A. is a not for profit organization dedicated to providing the highest educational and professional standards for Shiatsu Therapy in British Columbia. shiatsutherapy.ca
The Shiatsu Therapy Association of Ontario. shiatsuassociation.com
The Shiatsu Society of Ontario shiatsuontario.org
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References
An extensive resource site with some fabulous graphics. zendvd.net
Comprehensive description on the history and styles of Shiatsu. en.wikipedia.org - Shiatsu
Comprehensive list of the many different Shiatsu styles from Wikipedia. en.wikipedia.org - Shiatsu Styles
A comprehensive set of information about Shiatsu generally, plus regulation and training. Extremely well organised. The Shiatsu Society (UK)
A guide to Shiatsu. shiatsu.hairdownfeetup.com
Shiatsu Therapy Association of British Columbia description of styles and other information. Shiatsu Styles
Description of traditional Japanese Shiatsu crystalinks.com
Many articles on Shiatsu can be found here. articlesbase.com
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