The countless benefits of shiatsu massage range from the release of muscle tension to relief in times of stress and anxiety. When life becomes burdensome and we feel like nothing provides us with relief, we may turn to shiatsu to restore harmony.
Shiatsu is a ‘Japanese massage’ technique that helps us regain balance and get our vital energy flowing. In Italy, the benefits of shiatsu treatment are widely known and more and more people are turning to professional practitioners to restore their psychophysical balance.
In this in-depth look at what the benefits of this age-old practice are and maybe you too will want to approach shiatsu to experience the benefits of a massage. I will also explain why these benefits are different from those of the classic relaxing massage.
Benefits of Shiatsu massage?
What are the benefits that this thousand-year-old art, which has come down to us from the East, can give us? The benefits of shiatsu massage go far beyond simple relaxation; in fact, it acts on several levels, from the physical to the emotional. Shiatsu massage is a valuable ally in meeting the challenges of modern life by helping to reduce stress, improve sleep and increase vitality. Let us look specifically at how shiatsu massage can help us.
Benefits of Shiatsu massage for the body
On a physical level, shiatsu massage is a powerful ally that helps by relaxing and toning muscles and improving the circulatory system. It gives flexibility, relieves pain and strengthens the immune system.
- Relaxes muscles and relieves pain: accumulated tensions in the body are often the cause of chronic and/or acute pain. By acting on energy points, the gentle pressure of shiatsu induces a state of deep relaxation that relieves these tensions. It also calms the mind, which, freed from worries, can experience an intense feeling of well-being. Shiatsu can be particularly effective for problems related to cervical spine pain (neck pain) caused by sedentary postures and poor posture, such as spending many hours in front of the computer.
- Improves circulation: proper circulation, blood and lymph, is the basis of many life processes. Synonymous with poor circulation can be swelling and heaviness in the legs, cold extremities, joint inflammation. The action of shiatsumassage on the flow of energy contributes not only to better circulation, but also to the elimination of waste and the maintenance of an efficient immune system. Good circulation also contributes to the nourishment of joints and promotes flexibility.
- Maintaining and increasing flexibility: in addition to pressure, shiatsu makes use of gentle stretching and joint mobilisation, which, by improving the nourishment of muscles and joints, helps them to remain elastic.
- Relief from digestive complaints: by acting on energy points related to the digestive system, shiatsu massage can relieve complaints such as bloating, constipation and acidity.
- Benefits for the osteoarticular system: useful for relieving joint pain even in the case of chronic pain, improves posture and prevents the onset of degenerative diseases.
Benefits of Shiatsu massage for the mind
Shiatsu massage is also a valuable ally of the mind because it helps improve mental clarity and quality of life. Let us take a detailed look at the benefits on a mental level:
- Stress reduction: constant practice has a relaxing action that encourages the release of accumulated tension. This sense of relaxation creates a clearer and more relaxed mental space. A relaxed and focused mind is more prone to creative thoughts, new ideas and letting go, so it becomes easier to relax the mind as well, promoting deeper and more restful sleep.
- Mental clarity: an energetic rebalancing of the life stream promotes a rebalancing of the nervous system, giving a sense of calm and centredness. A balanced nervous system promotes a clear and responsive mind. It also helps improve certain cognitive functions such as memory.
- Improved concentration: through improved circulation, there is more oxygen in the blood and more nourishment for the cells and brain. This has a beneficial effect on mental clarity and concentration.
- Increased body awareness: when receiving treatment, the pressure brought to bear on the energy points causes the mind’s attention to be brought to that specific point and creates greater awareness of one’s body and sensations. With an increased perception of the body and sensations, one can better cope with stressful moments as one is able to understand when one or more tensions come up.
- Stimulates vital energy: by working on the body’s energy flow, energy channels are kept free from stagnation that could hinder mental clarity is avoided.
Benefits of Shiatsu massage for emotions
On an emotional level, an energetic rebalancing produced by a shiatsu treatment induces a state of general well-being that helps one to be more aware of one’s emotions. Here are the main benefits one can expect from a treatment:
- Emotional balance: greater awareness of emotions increases the ability to manage them.
- Increased self-awareness: deep relaxation and touch in shiatsu massage induce a state of awareness not only of the body and mind, but also of one’s emotions.
- General feeling of well-being: gives a feeling of well-being and vitality.
Final tips for your well-being
In summary, shiatsu massage is a holistic practice that acts on all levels of the human being, promoting deep psychophysical well-being. Its combined action on the body, mind and emotions makes it a valuable ally in facing the challenges of modern life and improving the quality of life.
Obviously, shiatsu massage is intended as a complement to medicine and is not a substitute for medically suggested health treatments. Even if there are no contraindications, it is always good to consult the doctor before proceeding with treatments. Following common sense, we will avoid treatment if you have recent fractures, acute infections, serious heart or respiratory problems, contagious diseases, inflammation or open wounds. In such cases, where contact is to be avoided, meridian stretching can help obtain the same benefits as shiatsu.
Are you curious to try this ancient Japanese art? Book your first treatment now and discover the benefits of shiatsu on your skin!
Frequently asked questions
What are the 6 benefits of Shiatsu massage?
Shiatsumassage relaxes muscles, relieves chronic pain and improves circulation. On an emotional level, it reduces stress, promotes restful sleep and increases mental clarity. In addition, it contributes to flexibility and the general wellbeing of the body by improving body awareness.
How is Shiatsu massage different from a traditional massage?
Unlike traditional massage, Shiatsu focuses on the energy meridians and uses constant, perpendicular pressure. It is not simply a muscular treatment, but a holistic approach that works on the body, mind and emotions to rebalance vital energy.
Can Shiatsu massage help reduce stress?
Yes, Shiatsu is particularly effective in reducing stress. The pressure exerted relaxes the body, promotes mental calm and encourages a state of clarity. This deep relaxation helps the body and mind to release accumulated tension, which also improves sleep.
Who can benefit from Shiatsu massage?
Shiatsu is suitable for those suffering from muscle tension, chronic pain, stress or sleep disorders. Those who wish to improve circulation, flexibility and emotional balance can also benefit. It is a complementary treatment to traditional medicine, useful for psychophysical well-being.
What are the benefits of Shiatsu neck massage?
Shiatsu neck massage can help relieve tension, reduce muscle stiffness, and improve circulation in the neck and shoulders. This holistic treatment can also help alleviate headaches, improve posture, and promote a sense of relaxation and well-being.