Massage - Not just for the Gym


Shiatsu is an alternative form of traditional Japanese bodywork based upon pseudoscientific beliefs in ancient Chinese medicine including the concept of the yin and yang. Also known as the therapy of Five Elements, shiatsu stems from the old Japanese massage tradition called anma. To promote relaxation and healing, this massage technique uses both finger pressure as well as manipulation of the elbows, wrists, hands, and feet.

Barefoot massage has been growing in popularity as a way to reduce pain and improve posture. 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. Barefoot therapists can then release adhesions that are holding certain parts of the body back. This massage can improve circulation, reduce stress, and relieve 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. The kurabai can also be called a "sitting masseuse."

While these two basic styles are common, many spas have developed their own techniques. Some spas specialize in Swedish techniques, which are long, gentle strokes that stimulate the muscles. Some others use shiatsu, an Asian style of energy flow therapy. This involves pressure on specific points along meridian points to open blocked chakras and remove blockages. To achieve a holistic therapeutic treatment, you can combine different massage styles.

This traditional form of massage is gaining popularity. So too have the schools and therapists who provide it. Shiatsu is one form of massage that is very popular. 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 shiatsu therapist applies shiatsu massage directly to the tissues. A skilled therapist will be able apply pressure when necessary.


Another type of massage is Swedish 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 very popular with athletes and anyone who needs to improve circulation.

Barefoot massage, a very different form of therapeutic massage, is available. Barefoot massage can be done in saunas, hot rooms, private homes, or spas. This massage is very popular among those who are unfamiliar with massage and have never tried it in a formal setting. Barefoot massage is safer because the practitioner's fingertips do not touch any patient's skin. The patient will find this massage much more enjoyable, because the practitioner does not need to apply lotion or use towels to clean up the mess.

Shiatsuatsu is the last type of massage most often performed in spas and health centers. Ashiatsu, also known as Acupressure, is the act of applying pressure on specific acupoints to relax muscles and relieve tension. Many feel that ashiatsu is an art in and of itself and is very relaxing and sensual. 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.