Shiatsu is a Japanese word which literally translated means 'finger pressure'. It has been used in Japan for centuries and has its foundations in Chinese Medicine. More recently, it has been influenced by Western culture.
In Shiatsu, the practitioner applies finger, thumb, palm or elbow pressure to certain areas of the body and specific pressure points. This essentially supports the natural ability of the body to heal and restore balance.
There are three broad categories of Shiatsu technique which are:
1. Tonification - this relates to sustained pressure being applied to a specific area of the body, at an optimal angle to reach into the pressure points. This results in an increase in the blood circulation and energy in that area of the body.
2. Dispersal - this technique relates to actions such as, rocking, shaking, circling and squeezing which release blocked energy channels and release blood flow to the body.
3. Calming - this relates to stationary holding in certain areas of the body which calms agitated energy and makes you feel more relaxed.
Shiatsu has a number of benefits which include:
• A release of toxins in the body - the dispersal technique is believed to release toxins held in the body and help to disperse them.
• Deep muscle and tissue relaxation - the process of applying deliberate targeted pressure through the tonification approach, teamed with the dispersal method means that muscles can be fully relaxed.
• Increased flexibility - by relaxing the muscles, the body automatically becomes more flexible as there is less resistance.
• A reduction in stress - Shiatsu massage affects both the body and mind and causes it to relax, stress is therefore reduced as a result.
• Calms nervousness - another benefit of relaxation is that nerves are naturally calmed and anxieties relieved.
• Improved blood circulation - the dispersal technique releases blood flow and as a result increases the blood circulation.
• Reduces blood pressure- another benefit from the increased blood circulation and reduced stress level is that blood pressure is reduced.
• Increases mental and spiritual awareness - the channelled energy created by Shiatsu massage is believed to increase spiritual awareness.
Shiatsu massages can to be quite lengthy and multiple sessions are recommended. It can therefore be quite a costly way to de-stress and relax both the body and mind. However there are now a number of Shiatsu home massage seats available to buy in the UK. These Shiatsu massage seats also help to relax the body whilst promoting enhanced body function.
Generally, Shiatsu massage seats aren't too costly so are an ideal investment allowing you to relax in the comfort of your own home as often as you like. They comprise of machine operated 'kneading hands' which are set on vital body areas to provide relief from tired, aching or stressed muscles. Many seats can be programmed to concentrate on specific areas to provide a massage tailored to your needs.
With so many different types of Shiatsu Massage Seats available to buy in the UK, you might be baffled with too much choice. Henley Goods offer a very affordable Shiatsu Massage Seat with three precision settings for the perfect massage. Visit http://www.henleygoods.co.uk/shop/product-18-shiatsumassageseat.
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