Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that originated in Japan and is based on concepts in traditional Chinese medicine such as qi meridians. It is a non-invasive therapy that uses kneading, pressing, soothing, tapping, and stretching techniques and is performed without oils through light, comfortable clothing. The word "shiatsu" means "finger pressure" in Japanese, and techniques include massages with fingers, thumbs, elbow, knuckle, feet, and palms; acupressure, assisted stretching; and joint manipulation and mobilization. Shiatsu massage therapy relies on the use of fingers, thumbs, and palms to apply pressure to various areas of the bodys surface to help heal common ailments and conditions, and correct imbalances in the body.
Shiatsu is believed to help reduce stress and contribute to overall wellbeing. It can be used in the treatment of cancer to help people relax. Shiatsu is considered a generally safe treatment, although it can sometimes be painful, and there have been reports of adverse health effects arising from its use, a few of them serious. There is no scientific evidence that shiatsu will prevent or cure any disease.
