Procedures of shiatsu massage

Shiatsu massage is a form of Japanese massage. It is a bit different from other forms of massage because it does not use oil, it uses mostly only pressure techniques and the patient can wear clothes during the massage session. The shiatsu therapist will work on the meridians which are energy pathways inside a human body. It is believed that shiatsu brings the harmony, increases blood circulation. And the procedures of shiatsu massage are very pleasant form of massage.

The techniques

Step 1

Pressure is the basic technique in shiatsu massage. The pressure is made with the help of palms of the hand, knees, feet and elbows. The strongest pressure can be achieved using elbows and you have to take care not to put too much pressure. The pressure is made on specific locations of the energy points situated on the energy meridians of the body.

Step 2

Before starting the shiatsu massage session the massage therapist should see that the patient is comfortably dressed. The patient should lye on a massage mattress on the back or on the stomach depending on which procedure you wish to start from. The patients head should lay on a pillow and place your hand on the patients shoulders if starting from back massage procedures.

Step 3

The neck and shoulders are areas which keep the most tension in the whole body. Starting you massaging the neck and shoulders is ideal place. Kneading techniques and applying pressure will relax the patient. The shiatsu therapist should transfer his positive energy to the patient. Strong and slow moves along with slow breathing will help to get in contact patients body. After the therapist massaged the shoulders he may continue to the forearms and slowly move down the back.

Step 4

Continue down the back, apply pressure procedures with palms and elbows. The back is part of the body where you can apply stronger pressure in order to relax the tightest muscles. One thing to remember is that massaging the muscles on the back you will find relaxed muscles and tight muscles. You will have to put bigger pressure on relaxed muscles and less pressure on the muscles which are tight. You will have to work out the tight muscles with lower pressure and work on them for longer time. It might take you from 5 to 15 minutes to work on a area.

Step 5

Methods as manipulation, kneading, pounding and stretching of the muscles will heighten the pleasure of the shiatsu massage therapy. Shiatsu massage is a wonderful experience for any patient.