Shiatsu

Shiatsu Therapy is a form of manipulation administered by thumbs, fingers and palms without the use of any instruments, mechanical or otherwise, to apply pressure to the human skin to correct internal malfunctioning, promote and maintain health and treat specific diseases.

Shiatsu can also be defined as “one point pressure” that combines many varieties of rhythmical and changing stimulation. The pressure is applied to the acupuncture points which are located on the meridians. The meridians are pathways of energy upon which these acupuncture points are located. Most of these meridians are connected to or associated with a specific body organ and function. The actual points themselves are areas on the meridians where energy collects and is focused.

The purpose of Shiatsu Therapy is to help bring balance and harmony to the individual through the techniques described. The premise is that once the individual's own energy flows in a balanced, harmonious and unimpaired fashion, then his or her own natural healing power is unblocked and will correct and heal physical malfunctions.

Suggested Reading:
The Book of Shiatsu—Saul Goodman
The Shiatsu Handbook—Yamamoto & McCarty
Do It-Yourself Shiatsu—Wataru Ohashi
Acupressure's Potent Points—Michael Reed Gach