Shiatsu: more energy flow with Japanese pressure therapy

What is shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a manual therapy that uses pressure techniques to release blockages along what are known as meridians – energy pathways said to run through the body. Originating in Japan, shiatsu has its roots in tuina, a massage technique from traditional Chinese medicine.

How does shiatsu therapy work?

Japanese shiatsu massage is based on the idea that life energy (qi) flows through the body along meridians. According to Shiatsu theory, blockages in these energy pathways can cause discomfort or illness. The aim of treatment is to restore this flow and activate the body's self-healing powers. Therapists achieve this by applying pressure to specific points (known as acupressure points), supplemented with stretching and rotation techniques.

Life energy

Qi – or life energy – is a core concept in traditional Chinese medicine. Like shiatsu, other methods such as kinesiology also aim to bring qi into balance. Meridian charts are used to visualise energy flow in the body. Qi can't be measured scientifically.

How a shiatsu treatment is performed

1. Initial consultation: A shiatsu session usually begins with a brief conversation in which the patient discusses their symptoms and needs with the therapist. This helps the therapist to assess which meridians may be out of balance and which acupressure points to target.
2. Shiatsu massage: After the consultation, the treatment itself begins. The patient wears comfortable clothes and lies on a floor mat or treatment couch. Using hands, thumbs and elbows, the therapist applies gentle to deep pressure to specific energy currents and points. The session also includes targeted shiatsu stretches and rotations. These are designed to activate the qi along the meridians and encourage energy flow. A shiatsu massage typically lasts between 40 and 60 minutes.
   

Side effects

Shiatsu is a very gentle therapy and rarely causes side effects. Occasionally, patients may experience mild headaches or muscle tension afterwards, but these usually pass quickly.

When can shiatsu help?

Shiatsu massages are suitable for people of all ages – from babies and young children to adults, including pregnant women and seniors. Therapists tailor the treatments to the individual, making shiatsu a supportive method at any life stage.

Reducing physical and emotional symptoms

Shiatsu is a holistic method, meaning that practitioners view the body and mind as interconnected. From this basis, the therapy aims to promote inner calm, harmonise body and mind and boost overall wellbeing. Many patients report positive effects on a range of symptoms.

Physical symptoms

• migraines and headaches
• neck, shoulder and back pain
• gastrointestinal disorders
• menstruation pain
• chronic muscle tension and pain
• stress-related high blood pressure (home remedies for high blood pressure)

Emotional stress

• exhaustion or fatigue
• sleep disorders
• burnout syndrome
• depressive mood
• anxiety disorders
• trauma

Shiatsu during pregnancy

Many women speak of the helpful effects of shiatsu during pregnancy – for example, in easing back pain or preparing for birth. However, in the case of high-risk pregnancies, treatment should only be given with medical approval and by a specifically trained therapist.

Shiatsu methods

In addition to classical shiatsu, there are several other methods that combine different therapeutic approaches.

Zen shiatsu

Combines traditional shiatsu techniques with mindful body awareness and expanded meridian systems, believed to run through the whole body.

Meridian shiatsu

Concentrates on working along the body's twelve main meridians, often using meridian charts to identify and treat energetic imbalances.

Hara shiatsu

Focuses on the hara – the abdominal area, regarded in shiatsu as the body's energy centre.

Ikigai shiatsu

By blending classical shiatsu with the Japanese life philosophy of ikigai, this approach supports personal growth. Ikigai is a Japanese concept that people use to explore their sense of purpose and personal goals.

Empty touch shiatsu

A particularly gentle form of shiatsu that uses minimal, often barely noticeable, pressure. The therapist is fully present in engaging with the patient, and every touch is mindful.

Shiatsu chair massage for everyday use

The shiatsu chair massage is a short version of a traditional shiatsu treatment. It's performed with the patient seated on a special massage chair, leaning forward in a relaxed position. Targeted pressure is applied along the meridians to the back, shoulders, neck, arms and head, helping to reduce stress, boost concentration and ease tension. This form is ideal for any time during the day, either at work, over lunch or after a busy day.

How does shiatsu differ from other methods?

Like many alternative healing methods, shiatsu is based on traditional Chinese medicine. However, it differs in a number of ways from methods such as kinesiology, acupuncture, craniosacral therapy and classical massage.

Shiatsu and acupressure

The two forms of therapy are very similar and use pressure on specific points along the meridians. Acupressure, however, tends to be more targeted and symptom-driven while shiatsu is holistic, treating the person as a whole.

Does shiatsu really work?

Studies show that shiatsu can help with conditions such as chronic pain, sleep disorders and emotional stress. It can also play a supportive role in palliative care, providing comfort to people with serious illnesses. However, shiatsu is considered a complementary therapy. It is no substitute for medical treatment, and is best used as a parallel method.