WHAT IS SHIATSU?

Shiatsu is a traditional manual therapy that originated in Japan. The word shi means “finger,” and atsu means “pressure.” As the name suggests, Shiatsu uses finger pressure to help restore balance in the body.Shiatsu was systematized between the Meiji and Taishō periods by combining traditional Japanese therapies such as Anma and Do-in with Western techniques including chiropractic and osteopathy.In Japan, Shiatsu is widely practiced and appreciated by people of all ages. Today it has spread around the world under the name SHIATSU, and the number of people studying this technique continues to grow in countries such as France, Italy, Spain, and Canada.

Effectiveness of Shiatsu

In Shiatsu, the practitioner uses their fingers and palms to apply appropriate pressure to various areas of the body. This helps restore the body’s natural balance while relieving fatigue and physical discomfort.The main benefits include the relief of muscle tension and pain, improvement of posture, stimulation of blood and lymphatic circulation, and the regulation of internal organ function through reflex responses.Shiatsu is also known for its deeply relaxing effect, which can help reduce mental stress and promote overall well-being.In Japan, Shiatsu is widely recognized as a form of complementary medicine, and professional Shiatsu practitioners are nationally licensed by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

Shiatsu may help with:

Chronic fatigue
Mental stress
Headache, Migraine
Shoulder stiffness
Back pain
Insomnia
Numbness in hands and feet
Autonomic nervous system disorder
Digestive disorders
Joint pain
Swollen feet
Dysfunction due to bad posture such as hunching back, distorted back, forward head posture (text neck), etc.
Sports performance improvement etc.

Differences between Shiatsu and Western massage

One of the main differences between Shiatsu and Western massage lies in the way the body is approached.While massage generally focuses on rubbing and kneading movements that stimulate the surface of the body, Shiatsu applies steady pressure vertically to specific points.This pressure often creates a unique sensation, as if it penetrates deep into the body and spreads from within.Another characteristic of Shiatsu is its flexibility: it can be performed on a futon, tatami mat, or chair, and it is usually practiced through clothing without the use of oils.

Shiatsu and Eastern Medicine

Eastern medicine originated in China more than 2,000 years ago.While Western medicine often focuses on treating specific symptoms or parts of the body, Eastern medicine emphasizes restoring harmony and balance throughout the entire body, with a strong focus on prevention. It is based on unique concepts such as the flow of vital energy known as Qi, as well as philosophical principles like the Five Elements theory, which relates natural elements to the functions of the human body.

Shiatsu incorporates these ideas by stimulating specific points called acupoints (tsubo). Stimulating these points may help relieve pain and support the balance of internal organ functions and the autonomic nervous system.

*acupoints: These are specific points on the body used in treatments such as acupuncture. It is said that more than 300 such points exist throughout the body.

What is a Shiatsu Professional?

Practitioners who specialize in Shiatsu are known as Shiatsushi, which can be translated as Shiatsu Master. Although Shiatsu may appear simple at first glance, it is not merely a matter of applying strong pressure to the body. Effective practice requires a deep understanding of the structure of the human body, as well as refined skills that allow the practitioner to adapt pressure and techniques to the individual condition of each person.For this reason, in Japan practitioners undergo professional training at specialized schools where they study Western medicine, Eastern medicine, and Shiatsu techniques. They must then pass a national examination to be officially recognized as Shiatsu practitioners.Originating from the traditional Japanese concept of “teate,” which literally means “healing through the hands,” Shiatsu is now practiced in many fields, including Shiatsu clinics, wellness centers, and the world of sports.