Shiatsu – Amma is based on an understanding of the way the body rejuvenates itself through the movement of qi, resulting in abundant qi and whole health. It is vigorous in nature and deep without pain. It treats conditions that would require physical therapy, osteopathy, chiropractic, or sports therapy. Shiatsu and Amna is also used to treat internal diseases. Shiatsu – Anma is one of the forerunners of modern Western Neuromuscular and Trigger – point therapies.
In this session I use the techniques of Shiatsu and acupressure. The pressure is not as deep or painful as some Shiatsu therapies that are done. It combines these techniques with Anma and Tui Na massage therapy. Cupping and Gua Sha is used when needed.
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork. The work shiatsu means “finger pressure: and is sometimes described as finger pressure massage. The goal of Shiatsu is to restore the balance of energy in the body. The part of Shiatsu and acupuncture believes that disease and physical ailments are caused by imbalances or blockages in the flow of energy through the body. This energy is called KI or QI which flows through the body along meridians or energy channels.
Like acupuncture, shiatsu is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine where illness is thought to result from imbalances in the natural flow of QI energy through the entire body. With the use of finger pressure on the energetic pathways that are called meridians to improve the flow of QI. In the session I use my unique acupressure techniques to assist in this session.
A scientific explanation is that Shiatsu calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles, and alleviates stress.
During the session, pressure is applied by using my fingers and palms in a continuous sequence. Shiatsu does not use regular massage techniques. Points along the body’s meridians are used to restore balance to the flow of energy. Certain pressure points may feel more tender. When a point is located that needs more attention to, acupressure is used to treat the area. I incorporate Tui Na which is ancient form of Chinese bodywork. The name of this massage therapy modality comes from the two words describing actions in the treatment: tui means “to push” and na means “to grab or squeeze.” Tui Na has been called a combination of Shiatsu—a Japanese bodywork practice—and acupressure massage. It taps into these energy points, using stretches, pressure points, and joint rotations, to balance the body’s vital energy (qi).
What should I expect during my session
- The client is fully dressed during the session.
- Session is done on massage table.
- Female clients wear shorts or pants that can be pulled up the leg. Sports bra or bathing suite top and sleeveless top like workout top.
- Male clients wear shorts or pants that can be pulled up. Shorts are best.
- Please wear comfortable clothing that is loose if possible.
- No massage oils are used during the session. Only where cupping and gua sha is done. This is usually on the back and shoulder area depending on client.
- The treatment session lasts an hour.
The session is for those that seek and have:
- Relaxation
- Back pain
- Headache
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Myofascial pain
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Neck and shoulder pain
- Tiredness
- Recovery from injuries
- Stress
- Arthritis pain
- Poor digestion
- Constipation
- Low energy
- Depression
Precautions Shiatsu is not recommended for certain people:
- Infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
- Immediately after surgery
- Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor.
- People with osteoporosis should consult their doctor before having shiatsu.
- Prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged.
- Heart disease, check with your doctor first.
- Pregnant women should check with their doctor first before this session or any massage.
- Shiatsu should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.
- Gua Sha cannot be used on certain individuals. Please read this link before having it preformed,
