Massage - Not just for the Gym
Shiatsu, a form of traditional Japanese bodywork that is not based on traditional Chinese medicine and the concept of the "yin/yang", is an alternative to traditional Japanese massage. Shiatsu is also known by the therapy of Five Elements. It stems from an old Japanese massage tradition called "anma". This massage technique employs both finger pressure and manipulation of the hands, elbows, wrists, shoulders, and feet to promote healing and relaxation.
Barefoot massages are becoming increasingly popular as an alternative therapy for pain relief and improving 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 is known for its ability to improve circulation, relieve stiffness, and reduce stress. Because they are in direct contact with nerve endings, many barefoot therapists claim they can help heal the nervous systems.
Another variation of the atsu is the atsu kurabai, which means "finger pressure" or "finger brush technique." This version of the ashiatsu massage uses the fingertips to apply pressure to certain areas. This massage is often called a "developmental" massage because it targets a specific muscle group and treats the whole body simultaneously. (The kurabai is also sometimes referred to as a "sitting massage.")
These are two main styles. However, many spas have created their own methods. Many spas are skilled in Swedish massage, which uses long, smooth strokes to stimulate 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. One of the most popular forms is called shiatsu. Shiatsu therapists use pressure points to manipulate the body the same way as a qualified acupuncturist. However, the key difference between the two is that the acupuncturist uses their hands to apply pressure to certain points. A therapist applying shiatsu massage, on the other hand, manipulates the tissues directly with his or her hands. A skilled therapist will be able apply pressure when necessary.
Swedish massage is another type of massage. The Swedish massage is a type of massage where the therapist uses his or her hands to loosen tight muscles to allow for blood to flow naturally. This allows muscles to relax and become more flexible. Swedish massages are a popular choice for athletes and others who want to increase circulation.
Barefoot massage is an alternative type of therapeutic massage. Barefoot massage is performed in saunas or hot rooms, in private homes or spas. This massage is very popular with those who are new to the practice of massage and have never practiced it in a formal setting before. The idea behind barefoot massage is that since the practitioner's fingers do not touch the surface of the patient's body, there is less risk of rubbing up against sensitive 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 art of applying pressure to acupoints in order relax muscles and reduce tension. Many consider ashiatsu an art form, and that it can be very sensual and relaxing. There are many forms of ashiatsu, but Shiatsu is the most well-known. Shiatsu originated in Japan and is similar to acupressure, except that its goal is to heal the body through massage rather than just pain relief.