Skip to content



Learning More About Shiatsu, And What Is Shiatsu.


Shiatsu is a type of Japanese therapeutic massage created in Japan, which has spread internationally. The 1915 Japanese book, Shiatsu Ryoho written by Tenpaku Tamai is possibly the first written reference to modern Shiatsu. However, Tokujiro Namikoshi's (1905-2000) followers consider him to be the creator of Shiatsu. Joy Taylor is a Practitioner of Shiatsu in Sheffield England.

Shiatsu regulates your nervous system and promotes natural healing by stimulating chemical responses in your body. The therapeutic result comes from the fact that Shiatsu causes the release of hormones and body chemicals important to heal, to soothe, and also to make your mind and body perform optimally.

Shiatsu has been given official recognition by the EU Parliament also. It is among the eight non-conventional, complementary medicine disciplines stated in the Collins Report, which was adopted by the European Parliament in May 1997 (see references).

There are actually 838 basic shiatsu pressure points, called Atten in Japanese. These points can be found on the muscles, nerves, blood vessels, lymph vessels, bones, and endocrine glands. As the therapy moves along, the therapist feels the condition of the body, and applies appropriate types of pressure. The basis rule is that, the tighter the muscles become, the lighter the pressure should be put on. As the muscles relax, the pressure becomes deeper but it is usually firm and steady. Knuckles, fists, elbows, and knees are not used during a Namikoshi Shiatsu Treatment as they lack the required sensitivity.

Is Shiatsu any different from massage?

To learn Shiatsu better, we could compare it to Western massage. Both are based on anatomy and physiology. However, there are differences in the philosophy and the technique used by the therapist. Shiatsu technique uses finger and palm pressure but absolutely no rubbing, while western massage uses a rubbing motion. No oil or cream is ever used during a Shiatsu treatment, as there is zero rubbing in Shiatsu.

The main difference between Shiatsu and other modern Western forms of bodywork, known as massage, is in the way of applying pressure. In Shiatsu it is deep delicate pressure, using hands, thumbs, and fingers. Western Massage, on the other side, uses movements along the body surface also using herbs and oil as a lubricant.

Taking part in Shiatsu treatment is very easy for everybody. In Shiatsu taking off your clothes is not necessary. In typical Western Massage, that is generally performed on bare skin with oils or lotions, you have to partially or fully disrobe.

The therapeutic benefits and ease of Shiatsu have made it so famous all over the world.

Do You Wish To Know What Are The Incredible Secrets Of Acerola Berry?
Mother Nature has given us some wonderful gifts. Many of these we have used and misused, and some we are not even aware of. The acerola berry is one such marvelous gift whose true value is coming out into the open only in recent times.

Naturopathic Health Was Once Popular And Is Today Experiencing A Resurgence As Many People Discard Drugs
Naturopathic health care or naturopathy is simply an alternative form of health care which believes in the body's ability to heal itself.

San Francisco Chiropractors - Using Different Ways To Attain Identical Aims Of Pain Reduction And Health Improvement
San Francisco chiropractors are health care specialists who treat conditions involving the spine, adjacent muscles, ligaments and tendons, and joints using primarily manual methods. A minimum of four academic years in an accredited chiropractic college are required to earn the D.C. degree.

Some Herbal Health Supplements You Might Just Not Have Discovered
Today, you will find more and more individuals that are using herbal health supplements and there is a good reason behind this.

Essential Oils For The Family Members: Protecting Against Colds And Flu
Essential oils have been researched for their ability to not only destroy active viruses and bacteria, but actually enhance the function of our immune system. Here's a look at how to employ oils for the family to keep everyone happy and healthy.

Do Not Swallow Any Other Unsafe Pain Killer Unless You've Used The Following Natural Inflammation Treatments
There are two types of inflammation, acute and chronic. Whichever type you are dealing with, natural inflammation treatments can provide the best and safest way of dealing with it.

Natural Inflammation Treatments Which Might Simply Improve Your Health And Probably Save Your Life
Our modern lifestyles cause not only constant stress but we are attacked daily with many environmental toxins. This can cause nervous system imbalances and chronic inflammation.

San Francisco Chiropractor Reviews: How To Pick Out A Skilled San Francisco Chiropractor Online
Online review sites like Yelp are a good way to look for professional services such as chiropractors in San Francisco. However, it is a good idea to have an understanding of the review process.

What To Do For Whiplash: Household Care And Attention For The Purpose Of Minor Car Collision Injuries
Whiplash is the term given to a sprain and strain injury to the muscles from a short, sudden impact force like a car collision. It usually affects the muscles of the neck, upper shoulders, and upper back.

The Broad Range Of Benefits And Historical Uses Of Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus essential oil is one of the most popular, widely-used essential oils - both in aromatherapy and in other food and medicine manufacturing. Here's a look at its history and applications to learn a little more about this important oil.

Related Articles