Before the session begins, a shiatsu practitioner evaluates the person and assesses a person’s state of qi to plan the session. The practitioner may perform varying protocols based on the person’s general energy level, presence of blockages, and conditions.
For example, when a person has deficient energy levels, the practitioner uses techniques to reactivate or stimulate the blood and qi circulation. Meanwhile, they may utilize techniques to diffuse excess energy in anxious and stressed individuals.
Practitioners perform manual techniques such as holding, stretching, tapping, pressure, kneading, and soothing, using their thumbs, fingers, palms, and knees. They may also do more body stretches, rotations, and joint mobilizations.
From time to time, the therapist may ask the person to change their position to allow them to work on specific meridian points to energy stagnation or blockages.
Shiatsu does not use instruments or oils. During a session, individuals are fully clothed and traditionally lie on a futon mat placed on a floor, but lying on a massage table is also common.
Benefits
Shiatsu is a holistic form of therapy that improves a person’s overall health by affecting their internal energy system. It claims to help with:
• poor posture
• joint problems such as arthritis
• painful muscles
• digestive and bowel disorders
• sports injuries
• asthma
• hay fever
• constant colds
• skin conditions
• sciatica
• acute and chronic aches and pains
• fatigue
• muscle tension
• sinusitis
• bronchitis
• anxiety
• depression
• insomnia
• premenstrual syndrome
• low libido
There is limited scientific research to support the use of shiatsu in most of these conditions.
However, a 2019 study found that combining shiatsu with standard treatment for low back pain improves symptoms and quality of life shortly after the session.
Hand self-shiatsu, a self-application form of shiatsu, also promoted sleepTrusted Source in young individuals with chronic pain. Similar studies found the technique effective for young athletes who suffered from sports-related concussions. A 2021 study found the same effects for veterans and their family members.
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/shiatsu-massage#benefits
