What is Shiatsu Massage Therapy? Definition, Benefits & Techniques

ABSTRACT

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork which is based on the concept of traditional Chinese medicine, a modified form of massage therapy. Massage therapy is a trained, certified form which is helpful in manipulating the soft tissue of the body, muscles and connective tissue and tendons. It is an integrative medicine which is helpful in relieving stress, increasing relaxation and improving immune functions. It is done with fingers, elbows and knees which is helpful in the treatment of body stress and pain. It comes from the french word friction of kneading. In ayurveda massage plays a very important role which is very important. Dincharya is helpful in stimulating the lymphatic system, improving the immune system and reducing fatigue-ness. Massage is helpful in enhancing the skeletal system and in remodeling, activates the parasympathetic system which releases endorphins and serotonin, increases the flow of lymph and improves sleep. It is helpful in increasing human well-being, decreasing anxiety and rehabilitating sports injuries. In this article, we are going to discuss the history, causes and ayurvedic aspects in detail.

INTRODUCTION

Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy which involves the hand, thumb and other body parts which directly apply pressure to the various points and channels of the body. It originated in Japan and its manual therapies include acupuncture and anma. Shiatsu has the root concept of qi which means the vital life force which drives all activities of life. Qi is helpful in balancing the unblocked flow of energy. The pressure which is applied to the body promotes the flow of energy and disharmony throughout the body and relaxes the autonomic nervous system. Shiatsu is helpful in reducing blood pressure and is acting like a natural body pain killer. It is done mainly through deep pressure which is applied with the palm by using static pressure. These techniques used in shiatsu include stretching, holding and leaning body weight into various key channels. There are different types of Shiatsu massage- Ashiatsu (is a technique which uses the foot to deeply massage tissues and muscles). Ohashiatsu- (a form of massage which involves meditation which feels grounded), Five elements of Shiatsu (which concentrate on balancing energy using traditional shiatsu energy), Zen (an active deep muscle massage by applying pressures with palms and elbows to provide massage with the help of palms, elbows and fists).

HISTORY OF SHIATSU

Shiatsu is traditional Chinese medicine and was introduced first when Chinese medicine was introduced in japan. This includes various healing modalities which are practised in modern times by applying hands and fingers across the body parts. In 1912, Tokujiro namikoshi healed his mother who was suffering from rheumatoid he used finger and hand massage techniques which he named Amna and Shiatsu massage which is recognised by the Japanese government as a healing modality. It was popularized in the 17th century by acupuncturist Sugiyama Waichi during which massage in Japan has been associated with blindness. Shiatsu is based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) which is helpful in the relaxation of the body and mind which amplifies the ability of the body to heal itself.

BASIC TECHNIQUES FOR SHIATSU MASSAGE

Shiatsu is an ideal way for people who are stressed, in pain and in various forms of medical conditions to get relief.

The following basic techniques of Shiatsu are-

• CanBeaky - It is a form of massage which involves a gentle rocking motion to relieve pressure on the nervous system. It is helpful for the body to relax and rest comfortably.
• Pressure - It mainly requires the thumb, palm and knees. It is the most effective technique where the patient is lying on the floor and the therapist uses his body weight to apply pressure. This is helpful in improving balance and restfulness.
• Stretching - This is a good way to balance the energy pathway, here the patient arm is stretched by leaning the back of the body and giving effort from arm to neck.
• Rotation - This is an effective therapy by manipulating joints in a circular motion by moving the knee to relieve tension between thighs. It works on the ankle and provides a soothing effect.

BENEFITS OF SHIATSU MASSAGE

• It is helpful in improving circulation and reduces constipation.
• It is scientifically proven that this technique is promoting emotional and physical calm which reduces the tension in the body.
• Helpful with insomnia.
• Decreases depressive symptoms.
• Helpful in bringing relief to arthritis patients.
• Helpful in poor posture and in acute-chronic pains.
• Reduces the blood pressure and heart rate while increasing endorphins which is a natural painkiller.
• Improves the bowel functions.
• Decreases depression.
• Improves the quality of sleep and relaxation.
• It is also effective in inducing spontaneous labor in women who suffer from post-term pregnancy.
• It regulates the autonomic nervous system and stimulates the lymphatic and hormonal systems.
• Sinusitis, Bronchitis are easily treatable with Shiatsu massage.

RISK FACTORS

• Acute illness
• High blood pressure
• Blood cancer such as leukemia
• Varicose vein
• Undergoing chemotherapy
• Recent wounds and scars
• Viruses such as chickenpox and flu
• Osteoporosis
• Inflammation
• Burns
• Athlete's foot
• The patient has a limited range of motion, underwent surgery, and a poor immune system
• Uncontrolled diabetes

AYURVEDIC ASPECT

In ayurveda, Shiatsu can be done in the form of abhyanga which is performed with medicated oils or without oil. Abhyanga is a massage which is done on the entire body from the scalp to the soles of the feet. It is the most popular massage in Ayurveda which maintains health through natural practices. The prime aspiration of ayurveda is to maintain the health of the healthy person which heals and rejuvenates the individual. Abhyanga controls the Vata doshas. The word abhyanga is derived from Abhi (towards) +Anjana (to smear)+Abhyanjana (to massage the whole body). It is helpful in providing the body with strength, mobility and flexibility. Improves the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, clears stiffness and leads to lightness in the body.

CLASSIFICATION OF ABHYANGA

On the basis of the nature of the drug-

1. Dry massage
2. Powder massage
3. Oil massage

On the basis of movement (Swedish)-

1. Touch - The sensation is carried to the brain
2. Stroke - Movement with one or both palms slowly
3. Friction - Grasp the part and little amount of movement
4. Kneading - Compression of the tissues

The human body has 107 marmas and the prana (energy) resides at this point if abhyanga is performed positive energy is generated. It protects, rejuvenates and increases the immunity towards external environmental changes making abhyanga the most important part of daily activities. This therapy works by unlocking the sensitive power in the body known as Srotas. The major marmas correspond to 7 chakras or the energy center of the body which radiates to the torso limbs. In Marma therapy light stimulation of the body is done which removes the blockages by giving physical and psychological relaxation and strength.

CLASSIFICATION OF MARMA

• Sadyah Pranahara Marma
• Kalantara Pranahara Marma
• Vishalya Ghana
• Vaikalyakara
• Rujakara Marma

ROLE OF MARMA

• Removes the blocked energy channels which are known as srotas.
• It is helpful in pacifying the Vata doshas (air and space elements)
• Creates physical and emotional flexibility.
• Creates an opportunity to experience powerful physical and emotional transformation and builds a positive link with the unconscious mind.

BENEFITS OF MARMA THERAPY

• It is helpful in getting relief from chronic and acute pain.
• Detoxification at all levels.
• Provides a healthier and more radiant appearance (increases the flow of blood and decreases pigmentation).
• It is helpful in balancing the doshas and whole body temperatures.
• Releases neurochemicals such as serotonin for improved sleep.
• Improves the functions of body organs and functions, immunity and respiratory functions.
• Provides better metabolism.
• Reduces muscle stiffness and increases the mobility of tight muscles.
• Promotes lymphatic drainage (as it removes the body waste and fluid in the lymphatic system which causes swelling).
• Improves vision and increases alertness.

In Shiatsu medicated oils are not used, but if a patient suffers from a lot of problems then Nirgundi oil and Dhanwantharam oil can be used. Nirgundi Oil and Dhanwantharam Oil from planet Ayurveda are helpful as they have anti-inflammatory properties hence balancing Vata and Kapha doshas. Provides a soothing effect.

CONCLUSION

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork which is based on the concept of traditional Chinese medicine, a modified form of massage therapy. Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy which involves the hand, thumb and other body parts which directly apply pressure to the various points and channels of the body. It originated in Japan and its manual therapies include acupuncture and anma. It is done mainly through deep pressure which is applied with the palm by using static pressure. In ayurveda, Shiatsu can be done in the form of abhyanga which is performed with medicated oils or without oil. Abhyanga is a massage which is done on the entire body from the scalp to the soles of the feet.