Balancing shiatsu

This thousands year old therapy is based on finger pressure. Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese technique using finger pressure to put the chi, or life energy, into harmony and to regulate imbalances that can provoke illnesses, among those digestive disorders.

+ Shiatsu originated over 6,000 years ago in the Orient. Today, it is considered a modern alternative medical treatment. Japanese practitioner Tokujiro Namikoshi introduced the technique to the West in the 20th century. The technique is based on the teaching of ancient Chinese massage and was further developed in Japan.

Shi means “fingers” and atsu means “pressure.” Shiatsu means “finger pressure” in Japanese. Using the rhythmic pressing of acupressure points for short periods, the shiatsu technique is a treatment working on the meridians of the body to put our chi or life energy in balance. Meridians are channels which carry the vital chi energy throughout the body. Pressure points are located along these channels which correspond to the Chinese acupuncture points. Shiatsu can be effective against a number of disorders.

SHIATSU FOR DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS

Along the meridians, there are specific points to stimulate the proper functioning of the digestive system. Applying therapeutic pressure can help to calm symptoms and prevent future ailments.

The following exercises can be done by a practitioner or you can do them yourself, to provide soothing relief.

∎ To loosen the intestines. Apply pressure to the point below the elbow on the outer part of the arm, as indicated in the photo.

∎ For excess gas and inflammation. Press on the inner part of the forearm, below the joints.

∎ To harmonize the energy in the spleen meridian and to relieve digestive problems. Apply finger pressure on the point located the height of four fingers above your ankle. Pressure should not be applied to this point in the case of pregnancy.

∎ To stop nausea. Place your left thumb on your right wrist. Apply gentle pressure with your thumb.