Things You Need To Know About A Shiatsu Massage Therapy

You may already know that Shiatsu massage therapy is some form of massage, but what does massage therapy entail? The Shiatsu practice started in Japan, using traditional Chinese medicine with elements from modern medicine. It emphasizes the body's own ability to heal itself. The form of massage focuses on the whole body, instead of just precise areas as with other types of massages. 

How does it work?

The Shiatsu massage therapy heavily relies on the use of fingers, elbows, hands, palms, and thumbs to apply pressure to various parts of the body. The pressure applied to these body parts promotes energy flow throughout the body and in some way corrects any ailment in the patient's body. Shiatsu works by helping to regulate the autonomic nervous system activity and then stimulating the body's nervous, circulatory, and hormonal systems. Some common ailments that can be treated by the Shiatsu massage include joint problems, arthritis, acute neck pain, chronic neck pain, bronchitis, sinuses, back pain, and sciatica. These massage therapy sessions take about forty-five minutes to an hour, depending on the Shiatsu massage therapist. 

Getting a Shiatsu massage

The Shiatsu massage treatment commences after a diagnosis. The diagnosis helps in understanding your whole body, and its wellness. The process is holistic, making it one of the most preferred medical massage options. Once any underlying ailment is arrived at, the Shiatsu massage professional will result in providing treatment, targeting the appropriate acupoints and meridians.  The massage is performed on a low massage table, or a mat. No massage oil is used during massage therapy.

What are some of the benefits of Shiatsu massage therapy?

So many benefits come with receiving a Shiatsu massage such as:

• Restoring the nervous, circulatory, lymphatic, and body's hormonal systems

• Increases the production of endorphins in the body

• It improves stamina and vitality

• It lowers blood pressure and heart rate

• Enhances the body's coordination

• It improves the body's range of motion

• The therapy helps to reduce tension and stress

• The therapy helps to reduce menstrual cramps

• Helps to relieve constipation when applied at the abdominal area

• Shiatsu helps to reduce fatigue and body weakness

Finding the right Shiatsu massage therapist

Different massage therapists have different specializations when it comes to massage therapy. Ask around for the best Shiatsu massage specialists, and review their services before settling for them. Do not be afraid to ask for their certifications, licenses, and accreditation, as this will go a long way in ascertaining their education, skills, and level of expertise.

Safety and side effects

While the Shiatsu massage is considered safe and has so many potential health benefits, certain groups of people should exercise caution before undergoing this massage. These are:

• Patients with heart disorders 

• Those with blood clotting disorders

• Pregnant women

Also, the Shiatsu massage should never be performed directly over unhealed wounds, inflamed skin, fractured areas, directly over bruises, and on inflamed skin, to avoid further complications. 

Conclusion

The Shiatsu massage offers so many potential health benefits. After choosing a Shiatsu therapist, liaise with them about how the therapy can help treat any chronic and or acute conditions you might have. The session will also come in handy in improving your all-around health and well-being.