Massage has been utilized for thousands of years as a treatment method. The earliest evidence of its therapeutic effects can be found as far back as the times of the Ancient Egyptians. Although there are numerous kinds and styles of massage offered today, Shiatsu remains a niche practice. Shiatsu massage is becoming more popular in the United States, particularly in spas, massage centres, and other establishments offering different types of massage.

Shiatsu is also referred to as the Tui Na massage. Shiatsu is a largely pseudoscientific type of Japanese massage based on traditional theories in Chinese medicine, such as the flow of qi (pronounced chee), also known as “chi” in Chinese, believed to promote health and vitality. It was first developed in China but was eventually brought to Japan which was where it was utilized as a healing technique. However, since it was popularized by Japanese master practitioner Tokujiro Namikoshi in the latter part of the 20th century, shiatsu today is largely a product of the East Asian country. The theory behind this type of massage is that soft tissues, specifically muscles, can be damaged when the flow of Qi is not in the right direction. The theory is similar to acupuncture, which teaches that targeted pressure can enhance energy flow throughout the body.

Shiatsu massage is usually done with two therapists. One person applies pressure to muscles with their hands while another gently manipulates soft tissues with their elbows. One therapist typically does the entire body while the other therapist focuses on the legs. Shiatsu therapists utilize their elbows to massage the body, knead and press various parts of the body. Shiatsu massages can also be done with bare hands or the soles of your feet. Since the majority of massages are performed with the clothed body, the client must remove all clothing before they begin.

Prenatal massage is a different option for massage therapy. Prenatal massage utilizes gentle pressure to help relax pregnant women. It can also help relieve pain during labor. A prenatal massage session can last up to an hour. Prenatal massages are usually recommended by a certified professional who knows how the duration of the massage is likely to take.

Reflexology Massage is a different method to relieve chronic pain without the need for needles. Reflexology massage focuses on finding the energy flow points, by concentrating on hands and feet. Endorphins are the natural chemicals produced when the body receives energy flow. Since reflexology increases circulation, it is beneficial for people who suffer with chronic pain. Additionally, it can help ease tension in muscles.

Swedish massage involves circular motions that feel almost like rubbing or caringssing. Swedish massage employs a long rectangular stroke used to relax and relieve tension. The Swedish massage can be done in many different ways. The strokes can be gentle or hard, gentle or deep, or can be circular or back and back and forth.

Kneading can be a different form of massage that a massage therapist can offer. Kneading is defined as rubbing your fingertips with a gentle touch around your body. You will often use your fingertips to massage the body in long, sweeping motions. Kneading is a method of stimulating specific areas on the body by using gentle strokes or applying repetitive pressure on a single spot. The benefit of kneading is that it relaxes and soothe frayed muscles.

Reflexology is often compared with prenatal massage, which uses the same relaxing technique, but employs an entirely different technique. Reflexology utilizes pressure points on the feet and hands that correspond to specific areas in the body. Reflexology can be used to treat a variety of health conditions, such as the fibromyalgia condition and diabetes. Whatever your health issue, a skilled therapist will design a soothing and effective program to relieve pain, improve circulation , and improve relaxation.