Health and wellness through 'Shiatsu'

Reflexology, shiatsu, acupressure or pressure therapy are the same as these systems work in the same lines. Learn about 'Shiatsu' which is a form of reflexology. A slight difference might be that reflexology talks about feet whereas shiatsu is concerned with hands, feet and other pressure points of the body.

'shiatsu' is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine, where illness is thought to result from imbalances in the natural flow of energy, or qi (pronounced "chee") through the body.

According to a definition by 'wikipedia': 'Shiatsu' is a traditional hands-on therapy originating in Japan. Shiatsu is regulated as a licensed medical therapy by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and elsewhere by various governing bodies set up by Shiatsu practitioners.

Shiatsu therapists use finger and palm pressure to energetic pathways, called meridians to improve the flow of qi.

What conditions is shiatsu used for?

* Relaxation
* Back pain
* Headache
* Premenstrual syndrome
* Anxiety
* Insomnia
* Neck and shoulder pain
* Tiredness
* Recovery from injuries
* Stress
* Arthritis pain
* Poor digestion
* Constipation
* Depression

Shiatsu is also called acupressure.

Acupressure is an ancient healing art using the fingers and other parts of the body to skillfully press key points, which stimulate the body's natural self-curative abilities. When these trigger points are pressed, they release muscular tension, and promote circulation of blood, and the body's life force energy to aid healing. Acupuncture and acupressure use the same pressure points and meridians, but acupuncture employs needles, while acupressure uses gentle to firm pressure and integrates bodywork therapies, therapeutic touch, somatic work, healing imagery, energy psychology, and massage therapy techniques.

Useful links:

* 'Shiatsu Society'

* 'Shiatsu Massage Guide'

* 'What is reflexology?'

* 'Hand Reflexology Chart'

* 'Reflexology'

* 'Acupressure'