what is a shiatsu massage

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork based on concepts in traditional Chinese medicine such as qi meridians. It is a type of massage that utilizes the hands, thumb, or other body parts to apply direct pressure on various points or channels in the body. Shiatsu techniques include massages with fingers, thumbs, elbow, knuckle, feet, and palms; acupressure, assisted stretching; and joint manipulation and mobilization. The Japanese Ministry of Health defines shiatsu as "a form of manipulation by thumbs, fingers, and palms without the use of instruments, mechanical or otherwise, to apply pressure to the human skin to correct internal malfunctions, promote and maintain health, and treat specific diseases". Shiatsu is traditionally done on the floor, and individuals are fully clothed during the session. Shiatsu is a holistic form of therapy that improves a person’s overall health by affecting their internal energy system. Some benefits of Shiatsu may include lowered levels of anxiety, decreased muscle stiffness, improved blood and lymphatic circulation, and relief from chronic conditions such as headaches, PMS, digestive disorders, fatigue, insomnia, fibromyalgia, stress, anxiety, and musculoskeletal pain, including low back, neck, and joint pain.