Massage - It's Not Just For the Gym
Shiatsu is a Japanese alternative to traditional Japanese bodywork. It is based on pseudoscientific beliefs from ancient Chinese medicine, including the notion of the yin/yang. Also known as the therapy of Five Elements, shiatsu stems from the old Japanese massage tradition called anma. This massage technique relies on finger pressure and manipulation of the fingers, elbows and wrists to promote healing and relaxation.
Barefoot massage is also becoming more popular as a treatment to improve posture and relieve pain. Barefoot therapists say that by applying slight pressure with their bare feet they are able to penetrate all the way down to the fascia or underlying connective tissue of the body. The barefoot therapist is able to remove adhesions which hold certain parts of your body in place. This type of massage has many benefits, including improved circulation, decreased stress, better posture, and relief of stiffness. Barefoot therapists are often credited with helping to heal the nervous system through direct contact with nerve endings.
Another variant of the atsu massage is the atsu Kurabai. This means "finger pressure" and "fingerbrush technique". The ashiatsu massage is a version where the massage therapist uses their fingertips to press on specific areas. This treatment is sometimes referred to as a "developmental massaging" because it focuses on a particular muscle group, while simultaneously treating the whole body. Sometimes, the kurabai may also be called a sitting massage.
These two styles are very common in spas, but many spas have their own methods. Some spas offer Swedish treatments, which involve long, flowing strokes to stimulate the muscle. Another Asian method of energy flow therapy is shiatsu. It uses pressure on specific points along the Meridian Points of the body, to unblock chakras or release blockages. A variety of massage types can be used in conjunction with any one style, to achieve a complete therapeutic treatment.
As the popularity of this ancient form of massage continues to grow, so too has the number of schools and therapists who offer it. One of the most popular forms is called shiatsu. Shiatsu therapists work with the pressure points of the body in the same manner as qualified acupuncturists, but the key difference lies in that they apply pressure using their hands. A therapist applying shiatsu massage, on the other hand, manipulates the tissues directly with his or her hands. A good therapist will know when pressure should be applied and when it shouldn't. That is why an excellent therapist should also be capable of performing the ashiatsu massage.
Swedish massage is another type of massage. This massage uses the hands of the massage therapist to release tight muscles and allow blood to flow freely throughout the body. This allows muscles to relax and become more flexible. Swedish massages are popular among athletes and other individuals who may benefit from improved circulation.
A very different type of therapeutic massage is called barefoot massage. Barefoot massage is performed in saunas or hot rooms, in private homes or spas. This type of massage is popular for those who are just starting out in massage or have never done it in a formal setting. Barefoot massage has the advantage that the practitioner's hands do not touch the skin of the patient, so there is less chance of irritation. In addition, since the practitioner does not have to worry about lathering up with lotion or using towels to remove the mess, this massage is much more comfortable for the patient.
Ashiatsu, a final type of massage, is also a common one that is performed in many spas and health centres. Ashiatsu (also known as acupressure) is the art of applying pressure to acupoints in order relax muscles and reduce tension. Many believe that ashiatsu is an art and a relaxing, sensual form of massage. Shiatsu is most commonly used. Although there are many different types of ashiatsu around the globe, Shiatsu is the most widely practiced. Shiatsu, which originated in Japan, is similar to Acupressure. However, it is more about healing the body through massage than pain relief.