Massage That Bridges The Space Between Body And Spirit
For many individuals, massage has evolved from a periodic
indulgence to a key component of an overall health and fitness
regimen. The ability of massage to reduce stress and remedy
various physical ailments has convinced many to include a
massage therapist on their list of health providers.
But the art of massage takes many forms. Typically, a visit to a
spa or an independent massage therapist will include some form
of Swedish massage or deep tissue massage. These techniques are
designed to invigorate muscles by promoting increased blood flow
to specific areas and identifying and relieving particular
problems. The application of these types of massage involves
long, rhythmic strokes and kneading or circular actions with the
hands, palms or fingers. The result is improved circulation,
physical relaxation and a reduction in mental stress.
Shiatsu massage is also an extremely effective form of massage
but with a somewhat metaphysical rationale to support the
technique.
Shiatsu is a Japanese word that means "finger pressure." The
goal of Shiatsu is to restore the balance of energy in the body.
Proponents of Shiatsu and acupuncture believe that disease and
physical infirmities are caused by imbalances or blockages in
the flow of energy through the body. This energy is called "ki"
which flows through the body along meridians or energy channels.
Practitioners strive for a balance between Yin (negative energy)
and Yang (positive energy) and attempt to determine where there
may be a build up of energy or an energy deficiency. Either will
cause problems.
Shiatsu does not use the rubbing and kneading technique of
Swedish massage but applies pressure using almost any part of
the therapist's body including arms, legs, fingers, hands, feet,
elbows, toes, etc. The therapist locates a particular point
along one of the body's meridians and applies pressure to that
area, attempting to restore balance to the flow of energy. The
pressure can be applied gently with the fingers or may be
applied forcefully with the point of the elbow depending on the
location of the point and the severity of the blockage. The
therapist may also incorporate stretching, holding or rotating
various parts of the body
The restoration of the proper balance of "ki" is viewed as a
spiritual as well as physical benefit. The balanced flow of
energy offers physical comfort and improved health as well as
emotional stability and spiritual well being. In fact, it is not
uncommon that a recipient of Shiatsu massage may experience an
intense emotional response as energy is released from problem
areas and restored to proper levels. Crying is not an unusual
occurrence and a good Shiatsu massage therapist is fully
prepared for, and completely sympathetic to, this type of
response.
Shiatsu massage is an extremely relaxing and healing form of
massage. It is satisfying to know that besides feeling better, a
Shiatsu experience can place us back in balance with the energy
flow of the universe.