Dare To Be Aware | Alternative Healing Portal

Shiatsu Rebalances Your Life Force Energy

By Viola Woolcott

Shiatsu literally meaning ‘finger pressure’ (’shi’ - finger and ‘atsu’ - pressure). It is a form of Oriental bodywork. It was developed in Japan but has its roots in ancient Chinese/Japanese medicine. It is a fully accepted medical treatment and authorised by the Japanes Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Shiatsu has often been described as Acupuncture without needles as it is based on the same principles. It concentrates and works on the energy lines or meridians to rebalance the life force energy or ‘Ki’.

There are 5 elements, which correspond and directly relate to the body:

~ Heart - Fire
~ Kidneys - Water
~ Spleen - Earth
~ Lungs - Metal
~ Liver - Wood

When the balance of the life energy in our body is disturbed, we become ill. Shiatsu can rebalance the body’s energies and regulate the function of the organs as well as improving circulation by a series of finger pressure along the meridians (also called pathways), which releases the body’s natural energy flow and our self-healing process can take place.

The practitioners can even detect energy imbalances before you notice any symptoms. During a treatment they quite often use their elbows, knees and feet. They very rarely use the palms of their hands. Shiatsu is also a wonderful preventative therapy leaving you feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

Treatments will last up to an hour. At the first treatment the practitioner will determine how many further treatments you would need. Your lifestyle in general, medical history as well as any health issues will be taken into consideration. The practitioner will also take your pulse and they will use touch in areas such as the abdomen which may be lacking in energy.

Shiatsu can help with conditions such as:

* Relieving stress
* Balancing energy levels
* Relieving IBS
* Improving digestive problems
* Boosting the immune system
* Relieving headache and migraine
* Benefiting the respiratory system
* Relieving menstrual problems
* Stabilising the emotions
* Expelling toxins
* Improving the circulation
* Alleviating backache

Guidelines you should follow:

1. Do not eat a big meal for at least two hours before a treatment. You can have a light meal before your treatment.
2. Do not drink alcohol on the day of your treatment.
3. Do not take a long, hot bath on the day of treatment.
4. It is best to wear loose clothing such as a tracksuit that will keep you warm, as the metabolic rate usually slows down, which could lead to you feeling cold.
5. It is also best not to wear any jewellery, perfume or aftershave, and to keep make-up to a minimum.
6. You will remain fully clothed during your treatment.
7. If you are having a home treatment, ensure that the room is warm and quiet, and free from disturbances.
8. Allow yourself enough time so that you are not arriving in a hurry, or having to rush away afterward.
9. Make a list, have details available of current medical diagnosis and of any medication you may be taking.
10. After treatment drink plenty of water to flush out any toxins that are released.

Recommended Reading:

Filed under: Alternative Therapy on February 11th, 2008