Massage clinics typically offer a variety of different types of massage therapy, which include Swedish massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, and even hot stone massage. Japanese shiatsu is another type of therapy offered that literally means “finger pressure.” This type of massage is perfect for relaxing and finding relief from a number of common ailments.
What Is Shiatsu Massage?
Shiatsu is known as a form of Japanese bodywork. The term “shiatsu” is translated “finger pressure” and is used to describe
the type of pressure utilized in a shiatsu massage.
How Does Shiatsu Work?
Shiatsu can be equated to acupuncture, in that both are different forms of the holistic approach of traditional Chinese medicine. This form of treatment considers illness as a result of imbalances in the body’s natural flow of energy or qi. As such, shiatsu therapists use calm finger and palm pressure to direct your energy pathways and improve the flow of qi. More specifically, shiatsu functions to control or soothe your overactive nervous system by improving circulation, relieving muscle stiffness, and reducing stress.
What Will a Shiatsu Massage Feel Like?
Shiatsu is generally a very soothing form of massage. During your shiatsu massage, your therapist will apply pressure using his or her fingers, thumbs, and palms in a continuous pattern of rhythms and sequences. Most clients describe shiatsu as feeling more localized, which is a result of the therapist using his or her finger pads to apply constant, directed pressure rather than the palm.
During your massage, you may feel some tenderness or pain in certain areas. This feeling is common at certain pressure points but is typically experienced as a “good pain.” When receiving your treatment, be sure to communicate with your therapist and tell him or her if you are experiencing discomfort so that he or she can adjust the pressure level.
What Should You Expect During Your Shiatsu Massage?
Visiting a spa for the first time or at least for your first session of a new treatment can be unnerving, so knowing what to expect can help. Different from other forms of massage, shiatsu does not involve the application of any massage oil or treatment. For this reason, you remain fully clothed throughout the treatment; however, you should be sure to bring or wear comfortable, breathable clothing.
What Are the Benefits of Shiatsu Massage?
Just like many other forms of massage, shiatsu is considered an alternative medical treatment. As such, it can be utilized to treat a wide range of illnesses and health conditions. Shiatsu is effective for treating a wide array of conditions including back pain, headache, premenstrual syndrome, anxiety, insomnia, neck and shoulder pain, fatigue, stress, chronic pain, poor digestion, constipation, and depression.
Shiatsu is also effective for simple relaxation
If you are considering getting a shiatsu massage, you can contact Aura Wellness Spa, a leader in shiatsu massage in NYC, at (212) 695-9559 to schedule an appointment. Our wellness spa offers a variety of massage therapies including shiatsu, reflexology, aromatherapy massage, and a variety of others. Make your health a priority today and consider the benefits of shiatsu massage.