Massage Cushion

Shiatsu is a healing art, originating in Japan, which uses the power of touch and pressure to enable each of us to contact our own self-healing abilities. In a Shiatsu session the practitioner uses pressure with thumbs, fingers, palms, and sometimes elbows, knees and feet, to induce deep relaxation and a feeling of well-being. It is sometimes a dynamic, sometimes a seemingly static form, involving pressure and stretching on the limbs and torso, kneading and releasing tight muscles, and supporting areas of weakness. To receive, Shiatsu is deeply relaxing and yet invigorating, leaving a feeling of tranquility and a sense of being in touch with every part of one’s body. Giving Shiatsu is like performing a moving mediation and leaves the giver feeling as balanced and energized as the receiver.

Shiatsu was developed from traditional oriental massage and, in common with acupuncture and other oriental therapies, it works upon the body’s energetic system, using the network of meridians or energy pathways which relates to the functioning of the internal organs as well as our emotional, psychological and spiritual harmony. The concept of the body as an ‘energetic’ organism comes from ancient Chinese thought, and through centuries of experience and study has evolved into a system of medical theory which is both rich and poetic.

Shiatsu uses physical pressure and meridian stretches to unblock the dams - which show up as tight muscles and areas of stiffness - and revitalize the empty areas - which may feel cold, weak or just needing to be held. Oriental medical theory provides a framework by which the practitioner can asses the body’s energetic state and needs, and can explain why the body holds tension in certain areas or points and feels weak in others.

The techniques used in Shiatsu are both simple and profound. We are all familiar with ‘the healing power of touch’.

All forms of bodywork and massage can fulfill the need for touch, but Shiatsu is particularly applicable and practical in an everyday setting for a variety of reasons. One important aspect is that the receiver remains clothed during the treatment. In removing clothes is a further challenge that can leave the receiver feeling uncomfortably vulnerable. Another aspect is the slow and sustained holding pressure which characterizes Shiatsu actively encourages conscious relaxation. This allows the psychological mechanisms governing muscle tension to release more efficiently than with some other forms of bodywork. Shiatsu is very practical as it does not need any equipment.

How To Talk to Your Massage Therapist

As a professional in the alternative health field, I can tell you the importance of communication with my clients. Perhaps nowhere is this more important than in the massage studio. If you have had massage, you know there is a difference between a massage and a sensational massage. If you haven’t had massage therapy, what are you waiting for?

I once had a massage client tell me she didn’t want to hurt my feelings by asking for something specific. I feel great when I give a spectacular massage and I can do that better if you tell what you are enjoying and if there is anything that you don’t love. “I’m not wild about having my ears massaged,” gives me a few extra moments to rub your head or squeeze a little more tension out of your shoulders.

Before the massage, tell your therapist if there is any area of your body where you would like special attention. And, if there is any part of your body you don’t want worked on – say your feet are ticklish or you don’t want oil in your hair – let your therapist know at the beginning.

During the session, feel free to zone out. You are there to relax and receive. If you don’t want to talk, you absolutely don’t have to. However, I find that a little feedback during the first massage goes a long way. Be specific: “Could you work a little deeper in that area?” “Could you lighten the pressure there please?” “That pressure is perfect for me.” If a particular stroke is fabulous, say so! If you get cold, ask for a blanket. If you get too warm, ask to have your feet and shoulders uncovered. If you find the music jarring, ask if it can be changed.

Sometimes while a therapist is working in one area (for example your shoulder) you may feel it in another part of your body (maybe your hand or ear). Following the sensation around the body can be an effective tool for tracking down and releasing hidden tension, so tell her what you are feeling.

Finally, a note on tipping: If you visit a salon or spa, it is customary to tip the therapist. He is being paid a portion of what you paid for your massage. $10 is a nice tip; $20 said you really loved the work. If your therapist has her own practice, tips are appreciated but not expected in the same way. The best compliment you can pay a massage therapist is to refer your friends and family to her!