"Shiatsu Massage: We Clarify the Main Questions About This Oriental Therapy"

Shiatsu massage is a Japanese therapy that promotes relaxation and healing by aligning the body's energy, mind, and spirit.

During a shiatsu massage, the balance of vital energy is restored by unblocking energy points.

Shiatsu is based on the idea that blockages in the flow of energy, or “Ki,” can lead to both physical and emotional disturbances, such as back pain, digestive disorders, or states of depression.

By applying acupressure using the thumbs on the body’s meridian points, shiatsu directs the energy flow to alleviate discomfort.

In this article, we invite you to discover the benefits of shiatsu massage and clarify the main questions related to this therapy.

What Are the Benefits of Shiatsu Oriental Massages?

Shiatsu massage offers numerous benefits:

Muscular

Shiatsu relieves tension in muscles by applying pressure to blockage points, helping to treat physical pain related to the spine, head, joints, and muscles.

Skeletal

Shiatsu promotes muscle and vertebral alignment, contributing to improved posture.

Organic

Shiatsu enhances the immune system by stimulating blood circulation and removing toxins, helping to prevent diseases.

Therapeutic

Shiatsu complements conventional medicine in the treatment of rheumatic, respiratory, or psychological conditions.

Hormonal

Shiatsu harmonises body and mind by addressing hormonal imbalances that cause emotional agitation.

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How Is Shiatsu Massage Performed?

Before starting the shiatsu massage, the therapist assesses your needs to tailor the therapy to your goals.

Shiatsu can be done on the floor, on a tatami, or on a massage table. By applying specific thumb pressure, the therapist releases areas of higher energy and muscle tension.

In addition to the thumbs, palms, elbows, arms, and sometimes even knees or feet may be used to perform acupressure movements and massage the entire body.

During a shiatsu massage, you’ll experience intense muscle relaxation, with calming or invigorating effects, depending on your preference.

Signs You May Need a Shiatsu Massage

The main signs that indicate a need for shiatsu massage include:

• Lower back, head, muscle, joint, and menstrual pain
• Seasonal respiratory allergies, nasal discharge, or congestion
• Constipation, intestinal cramps, or abdominal bloating
• Agitation, anxiety, pressure, and stress
• Swollen or aching legs and ankles
• Difficulty sleeping and insomnia
• Heartburn, nausea, or indigestion
• Fatigue

Experiencing any of these signs? Book your shiatsu massage and feel the benefits of energy balance.

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Who Is Shiatsu Massage For?

Shiatsu massage is suitable for all men and women aged 16 and above who suffer from:

• Migraines
• Arthritis
• Stomach pain
• Sports injuries
• Sciatic or lower back pain
• Asthma
• Insomnia
• Depression

It is also recommended for women who experience tension or premenstrual pain and for anyone in need of deep muscle relaxation and energy revitalisation due to extreme fatigue.

Studies on patients with fibromyalgia show that shiatsu massage increases pain tolerance, improves sleep quality, and enhances quality of life.
 

Frequently Asked Questions about Shiatsu Massage

We’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions about shiatsu massage. Find the answers below!
 

1. Is Shiatsu a Chinese or Japanese Massage?

Shiatsu is a Japanese massage but originates from traditional Chinese medicine and is based on the same healing principles that focus on balancing the body’s energy.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the person is treated holistically. Health is related to the flow of vital energy. When this energy is blocked, physical and psychological illnesses arise. Healing involves unblocking the meridians, the pathways through which vital energy flows.

2. What Does the Word Shiatsu Mean?

Shiatsu means “Shi” (fingers) and “atsu” (pressure), translating to the technique used in the therapy: finger pressure.

3. What Are Meridians in Shiatsu Massage?

Meridians in shiatsu massage are channels through which vital energy flows. If these channels are obstructed, energy becomes stagnant, causing discomfort.

By applying pressure along these meridians, blockages are cleared, allowing energy to circulate freely throughout the body, thus rebalancing the energy.

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4. What Is “Ki”?

Ki is the term used in the East for vital energy. It is the force all living beings possess to maintain balance, health, and overall well-being.

5. Can I Benefit from Shiatsu Even If I Don’t Have Any Issues?

Yes, you can still benefit from the positive effects of shiatsu even without any specific issues. Our energy is constantly influenced by external factors throughout the day, causing imbalances.

Therefore, shiatsu massage can be applied to maintain the body’s proper functioning, a healthy mind, and a peaceful spirit before discomfort or more severe issues arise.

6. Are Oils Used in Shiatsu Massage?

No, shiatsu massage is performed without oils. Its focus is on deep muscular relaxation along the body’s meridians, using acupressure to unblock energy channels and promote energy circulation.

Where Can I Enjoy a Shiatsu Massage in Lisbon?

You can enjoy a shiatsu massage at CitySpa, the best day spa in Portugal according to the World Luxury Spa Awards, and the only day spa in the country to win awards consecutively since 2014.

You can also receive a shiatsu massage at BSpa by Karin Herzog, one of the spas recognised at the World Luxury Spa Awards, winning “Best Luxury Emerging Spa” in 2013 and 2016.

Take advantage of the spa’s facilities to relax before or after your massage and enjoy a unique well-being experience that achieves the perfect balance between body and mind.