Eastern healing practices are widely used in medicine, cosmetology, harmonization of attitude. There are a lot of such techniques. One of them is shiatsu massage. This manipulation, how they are performed and how they work is described below.
Oriental practices for beauty and health
There are a lot of Eastern methods of healing working on the harmonization of internal and external energies. Some of them are more popular almost all over the world, others have thousands of years of history and are extremely closed from prying eyes. One of the young, but world-famous practices is shiatsu massage. Reviews about it are quite favorable, but only if the technique for performing such a massage is correctly mastered and performed either by a specialist or by the person himself.
Tour a few decades ago
Although even from the name itself it becomes clear that shiatsu massage is something that belongs to the ancient oriental healing practices, the very method of applying only fingers to certain parts of the body to achieve certain results became widely known only at the beginning of the last century. In Japan, in 1915, Tempaku Tamai's book "Shiatsu Rejo" was published, in which the term "shiatsu" is mentioned. A quarter of a century later, the first college of this practice was opened in Japan, the training program of which combined not only the ancient method of influencing the body, a way to control the energies of the living, but also Western anatomy and physiology as the basis of classical medicine. The founder of Shiatsu College Tokujiro Namikoshi developed a Shiatsu massage system and secured his school a special legal status.
The master himself treated many people with shiatsu - his mother, suffering from severe arthritis, former Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Yoshida, as well as many other statesmen of Japan, famous American stars, for example, Marilyn Monroe and Muhammad Ali. This made it possible to gain worldwide fame for the Shiatsu technique. Today, this method of healing the body and treating a wide range of diseases has many followers, many of which modify and supplement shiatsu massage, opening their schools, for example, ohashiatsu, zen-shiatsu - the so-called quantum shiatsu. Many theories that originally came from the practice of shiatsu, have been developed and today have become an integral part of this practice, used and popular around the world.
The origins of qigong
Ancient oriental practices of self-improvement and harmonization of the body and spirit with the surrounding reality are quite popular in the modern world. One of them is qigong. It is noteworthy that the term itself, designating such motor and respiratory gymnastics, combined a whole range of directions only in the middle of the 20th century. But the practices themselves span thousands of years of history. The healing methods of the eastern peoples have become popular due to their ease of implementation, the desire to harmonize the mind and body, help health, both physical and moral. The directions of qigong gymnastics itself can be quite specific, and draw its origins in various practices of oriental medicine. For example, the shiatsu massage technique is inherently a legacy of Japanese traditional medicine, although in many respects it also takes techniques from qigong.
The term "shiatsu"
The name of the Japanese healing complex of shiatsu exercises comes from two words: “shi”, which means “finger”, and “atsu”, which means “pressure”. If you put everything together, you get the basic principle of the shiatsu method itself - finger pressure. This area of traditional medicine is licensed as a type of therapy by the Ministry of Health of Japan. It is noteworthy that this is not an archaic and static healing technique, but a constantly evolving and improving practice, and at the present stage, spreading around the world, it combines traditional Japanese massage techniques, Chinese medicine practices and “Western” anatomy and physiology.
Features of the healing technique
Japanese acupressure shiatsu massage has one notable feature - in it all manipulations are performed mainly with the thumbs and palms. Moreover, masters practicing shiatsu not only perform healing manipulations, but are also able to "diagnose" the existing problem through a sense of density and structure of the skin. Mastering the methodology of this effect on the human body requires not only knowledge of anatomy and physiology, certain abilities, but also a lot of experience. By the way, many experts in the field of shiatsu massage claim that the diagnosis of the problem is carried out directly during exposure. The basis of practice is the modulation of the immune system and certain natural qualities of the human body, which have not yet been studied by traditional areas of biology. The effect on the skin with the help of certain movements and pressure forces on specific points or areas of the skin helps restore the functional nervous and cardiovascular systems, the state of the bone and muscle structures, normalize the work of the endocrine glands. All this contributes to the restoration of human health in general.
Rules, Canons, and Laws
It would seem that there is nothing easier than performing massage movements, especially such as using the shiatsu technique. But in the homeland of this practice, in Japan, only a competent specialist who has passed a long (at least 3 years) training course, passed a national exam and received a license from the Ministry of Health and Well-being can engage in this type of therapy. Massage with fingers and palms has gained popularity around the world, experts practicing this technique are called “shiatsu practices” (this is a standardized name that has become a registered trademark). Despite the fact that the method itself originated in Japan, as it spreads around the world, it is enriched with new knowledge and directions, originating in other national, national knowledge about human health. But a true school that practices canonical practice - shiatsu massage, receives the most favorable reviews, which often mention the registered and licensed basis.
Subtypes of exposure technique
Before starting classes in health-improving methods, originating in Eastern knowledge and practices about human health, it is necessary to undergo a serious training course. Indeed, in the vast majority of such exercises, it is necessary to know not only the technique of massage itself, but also to understand the special subtleties - the movement of energy flows, the relationship of thoughts and physical health. So, Qigong gave Shiatsu practice knowledge about the meridians and the concept of Chi energy, Buddhism - mantras to achieve a certain state of mind, tsubo technique - auto-training, and yoga - the practice of controlling the body and mind through movements and postures. Today, shiatsu massage for the face is quite often used. Feedback on this technique allows you to reliably learn about the effectiveness of both the technique itself and the masters who have managed to comprehend the features of this practice. In many cases, shiatsu self-massage is used, but in this case, experts recommend limiting oneself only to the desire to make adjustments to the appearance, bypassing the systemic effect on the body.
Indications for use
Like all techniques designed to influence the human body, acupressure of the face of a shiatsu or neck, decollete, as well as the whole body, is used to help solve problems such as:
- depression;
- immunodeficiency;
- myalgia;
- muscle pain;
- blood pressure disorders;
- violations of endocrine regulation;
- obesity;
- swelling
- sleep disorder;
- decreased potency;
- decreased libido;
- joint pain
- chronic fatigue.
Indispensable shiatsu massage for the face. Reviews say that this practice of oriental medicine helps to get rid of age-related changes - sagging skin, wrinkles. Shiatsu self-massage allows you to improve overall well-being when exposed to certain points of the body, and daily use of simple massage combinations allows you to maintain a fresh and healthy appearance.
When is shiatsu massage impossible?
It may seem that massage is a practice available in any state of the body. But actually it is absolutely not so. Japanese Shiatsu massage for face and body has its contraindications. It:
- herpes in the acute phase;
- feverish conditions;
- violations of the liver and kidneys;
- hematopoietic system disorders, including hemorrhagic diathesis;
- violations of the hematopoietic system;
- oncological diseases;
- acute cerebrovascular accident;
- skin damage in the affected area;
- head injuries.
If shiatsu massage of the neck, face, legs or hands is performed, then chronic diseases in the remission stage will not be contraindications to its use. But in any case, all manipulations should be carried out by a specialist taking into account the condition of the patient, the presence of existing contraindications.
Manipulation Features
The most commonly used oriental healing practices as facial massage. Shiatsu rejuvenation is effective in the quality of both self-massage and specialist manipulations. Since shiatsu is pressure with your fingers, this kind of manipulation will be the basis of practice. Here are some basic points that are necessary for a proper shiatsu massage:
- all pressure on the necessary points is carried out only by the pads of the thumbs;
- several simultaneous clicks on several points are carried out using the pads of the thumb and other fingers;
- one click lasts from 3 to 7 seconds;
- before massage, a special cream, oil or lotion is applied to the affected area, the excess of which is removed after the procedure with cotton pads;
- Shiatsu massage is most effective if performed in the morning;
- all clicks should be palpable, but not cause discomfort;
- stretching of the skin during massage should not be excessive;
- Shiatsu practice requires course application of a complex of manipulations - at least 10 days. Repeat it after a few weeks.
The points of influence necessary for a high-quality shiatsu massage can be found using special circuit cards. This is not easy to do, a thorough study of the characteristics of your body will be required, since some points should be determined not only and not so much visually as by the sensations that arise when pressed.
The pressure itself is carried out as if in several stages - for 1-2 seconds it is necessary to put pressure on the skin, then hold a fingertip 2-3 times round. In this case, it is necessary to be able to concentrate energy in the massaged point. This nuance requires serious experience based on the study of oriental practices of working with the energies of the body and the environment, auto-training and meditation.
Shiatsu massage for legs, face, abdomen, back requires a complete detachment from the external and concentration on the energy content of the vital points with which work is currently being carried out. You can use aromatic oils for massage, light scented candles or sticks to create a certain atmosphere in the room where the massage sessions are held.
How to perform self-massage using the Japanese technique?
One of the popular ways to improve the appearance that can be done at home is shiatsu massage for the face. Reviews and photos confirm the effectiveness of this practice in the vast majority of cases. However, negative or neutral responses are full of doubts about the correct implementation of acupuncture and the selected points of influence. This once again suggests that you need to carefully study the map of points or trust a professional to perform shiatsu massage.
The technique of performing massage movements requires focusing on every moment of the manipulation. The movements should be smooth, clear. Those who conduct the massage must take into account the thickness of the fat layer: the thinner it is, the pressure should be weaker, and vice versa. Cosmetic massage requires pressing on each point within 7 seconds, and medical procedures will be longer - up to several minutes.
Massage for beauty
In practice, shiatsu self-massage is often used for a cosmetic effect, because in this case you only need to perform acupuncture correctly with your fingers, without worrying about any systemic effects on the body, as in the treatment of any disease with massage. For example, shiatsu helps get rid of forehead wrinkles. A simple exercise must be performed in the morning. The pads of the three fingers - index, middle and ring - must be placed in the middle of the forehead, press until a slight discomfort appears and hold your fingers at these points for 7 seconds. Then slightly shift the fingers to the side and repeat the pressure. Move the area of influence to the temple, then massage the points on the other side of the forehead. Wrinkles on the bridge of the nose will help remove the massage of a point called the "third eye" and located in the center between the eyebrows. It is massaged as follows: for 1-2 seconds, press with the thumb, then for 5-6 seconds, circular movements of the finger at the point of impact are carried out. Massage of this point is used in the complex treatment of runny nose, sinusitis and nosebleeds.
Those who are grateful to this oriental practice, answering the question about shiatsu massage, what kind of technique this is, talk about cosmetic rejuvenation with the help of simple manipulations, which, as they say, is obvious. So, this technique helps to remove small wrinkles and swelling in the eyes, relieve fatigue and improve vision somewhat. These manipulations are also carried out using the pads of the index middle and ring fingers, which must be placed along the line of the eyebrows so that the middle finger is located in the middle of the arc. Then you need to press on the resulting points no longer than 7 seconds. You can work with both hands at the same time, massage two eyebrows.
The appearance of the lips helps to improve the massage of four points - in their corners, in the middle above the top and symmetrically under the bottom. Each point should be massaged with a thumb pad. Tightened cheeks will provide a massage of three points located under the cheekbones. It is carried out immediately with three fingers of both hands.
Bryly will remove the massage of points located on opposite sides of the chin (three on each side), while the thumbs are located under it and also carry out pressure.
Where to push to cheer up?
Shiatsu massage is also used for overwork, evening fatigue. For example, if after a long walk or a working day spent mainly standing, your legs hurt and ache, you should first take a foot bath. Then do self-massage using the Eastern practice technique: press the thumb with your thumb on the point in the middle of the foot three times with a break of several seconds. Then apply pressure on the point between the second and third toes from the foot.
Then mentally draw a straight line from this point to the middle of the heel and, dividing this line into three equal intervals, in each draw a pressure of 7 seconds each. In addition, the middle of the foot is associated with the urinary system, and massage of this zone will help relieve swelling, improving urine flow. Stroking and pressing on the lower legs, and then the outer and inner sides of the thigh will help relieve general fatigue and activate vital energy.
An unpleasant heaviness in the head will help to remove the crown massage with the transition to massage of the right and left carotid arteries located on the neck, from the chin to the clavicles. Eye fatigue from working on a computer will relieve massage of points located at the inner corners of the eyes and in the nasolabial folds.
To drown out your appetite, do a massage!
Shiatsu massage helps to cope not only with such appearance problems as swelling, wrinkles, or fatigue. It turns out that pressure on certain points of the body can reduce appetite, relieve hunger. And it helps to reduce weight. What points do you need to influence with your fingertips in order to normalize the need for food? One of the most accessible is the point in the center of the palm. How to find her? "", .
She is massaged with a small pillow of the thumb, pressing for 20 seconds. You can alternate pressure with circular movements and do several approaches. Also massage the point under the earlobe, at the edge of the cheekbone, and two points at a distance of three fingers to the right and left of the navel. The point that helps reduce appetite is also located on the outside of the elbow - in the groove obtained by bending the elbow joint. It helps to relieve hunger and massage of the area of the neck to the head, as well as the middle zone between the center of the forehead and the hairline.
How to lose weight in the abdomen?
It helps to lose weight properly conducted shiatsu massage. Photos of the results of this practice demonstrate its effectiveness, because excess fat on the waist and abdomen not only looks unattractive, but is often a sign of serious health problems. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the volume of the waist and take timely measures to remove excess fat. The Shiatsu complex will help you lose weight in this problem area. Such self-massage can be performed both lying and standing, depending on preferences or circumstances. Here are the basic manipulations of such a complex:
- Palms rub the stomach counterclockwise, trying not to put pressure on the liver. Circular movements should be started from the area around the navel, gradually expanding the exposure zone until the palm also covers the sides.
- Tap the fingers of both hands from the pubis upwards so that the navel passes between the palms, while this manipulation is performed several times, so that the distance between the palms is constantly expanding, reaching the sides.
- Following the same trajectory - from bottom to top - the next manipulation is also carried out, but tapping is replaced by pressure. With the pads of all fingers except the thumb, it is necessary to press on the stomach from below, inhale as much as possible pulling in the stomach, hold your breath, hold your fingers with constant pressure from the bottom up, only then exhale. This exercise is also carried out several times with the expansion of the distance between the palms.
- Chaotic movement of two palms (except for large ones) along the stomach in the direction from the bottom up with the use of pressure to displace the skin.
- The same exercise as the previous one, but performed using the phalanges of the thumbs.
- Rubbing with palms moving in parallel, but in a different direction to displace the tissues.
- Stroking the abdomen and sides from the bottom up as the final exercise of the complex.
Most people think that a properly performed shiatsu massage is something that helps bring the body back to normal and prevent the development of obesity.
Oriental practices are based on a comprehensive perception of man in the world around him. The impact on the human body to maintain health and treat many problems is carried out at many levels, often poorly understood for a person by Western education. But the desire to comprehend these practices, carefully reading the recommendations and strictly following the instructions of experienced masters will allow you to get the desired results. Therefore, concluding the story about Shiatsu massage (what it is), we can briefly summarize: Shiatsu is an aid to the body.