What is Shiatsu Massage Therapy?
Shiatsu massage is among the various kinds of massage therapy that originate in the ancient Japanese civilization. Shiatsu is also referred to as Kugel or Jugel. Shiatsu is a sort of Japanese bodywork based upon concepts in traditional Chinese medical theory including the application of chi channels to various areas of the body. Shiatsu also derives from a Japanese word, Jugan, which means"finger pressure."
Shiatsu has been found helpful in providing relief from muscle pain and other disorders. Additionally, it may be used for stress reduction. The objective of the type of massage is to stimulate specific points along the meridian system to relieve tension and restore the natural balance of energy through the body. Some of the specific points that are affected by this type of massage therapy are the Shiatsu points found between the feet and the ankle joints, the sacrum, pelvis, heart, and lungs.
In addition to the standard uses of shiatsu massage, it's also shown to benefit people who suffer from chronic pain conditions. In fact, in some instances, shiatsu massage is even shown to ease pain and other ailments in patients who do not even show signs of distress or pain. In these cases, the masseuse can control certain pressure points to treat the root cause of the pain.
Shiatsu massage therapy can be learned in a formal training program, although most massages are performed in your home. The benefits of shiatsu massage therapy tend to be immediate and much more life changing than the real massage therapy. Shiatsu can relieve aches and pains in the muscles, joints, and tendons, as well as improve energy levels. Massage therapists who specialize in Shiatsu massage therapy find that their customers experience increased blood circulation, increased mobility, improved mental alertness, and an overall sense of well-being.
Shiatsu massage school teaches students about various techniques which are used during the semester. One of the many common techniques, students learn is finger strain, or the Five Organic Compression Form. Shiatsu massages may also include the use of other traditional Japanese techniques like acupressure points, acupressure bands, or even the thumb and finger manipulation. Irrespective of which specific techniques the therapist uses, all of these techniques are designed to restore or maintain proper body alignment, balance, and stability.
Swedish massage is another common sort of shiatsu massage that is becoming popular around the world. Many folks who suffer from a variety of different types of back pain opt to undergo a Swedish massage therapy session. In addition to enhanced quality of life, many Swedish massage sufferers find that the sessions are also beneficial in reducing pain. Swedish massage is based from the same concept as acupuncture, but the two types of therapy have various origins. In Sweden, the professionals think that energy flows through the body on every level. When these energy channels become blocked, it may result in various kinds of health conditions such as chronic back pain.
The third type of therapy that is often utilised in a shiatsu massage is heat therapy. Heating is often applied to several areas of the body in order to reduce pain and encourage healing. Heat saunas and other heating devices are commonly used to help reduce swelling and to increase blood circulation in the body. Heat can also be applied directly to the problem area in order to alleviate the pain.
Each of these types of massage therapies has positive effects, though there are differing opinions about how to best perform each of these treatments. Shiatsu massage therapists are trained to determine how much pressure should be applied to each area of the individual's body. Pupils of shiatsu Japanese massage therapy learn the various techniques of applying firm pressure to various areas of the patient's body. These techniques are different than those used in Swedish massage therapy. A professional shiatsu Japanese massage therapist will often times be licensed and trained by a certified Swedish massage therapist.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology, also called soft zone treatment, involves the application of gentle pressure to specific locations on the hands and feet. The application is done with the little finger, thumb, and even hand massage techniques with no application of lotion or oil. Some could bemoan the absence of lotions and oils in contemporary life but there are loads of natural oils to use. Modern society pushes using synthetic oils where they are not needed.
Traditional reflexology uses the belief that the hands and feet are important parts of the human body. In Chinese medicine it is believed that the various organs and systems in the body are connected through these reflex areas. The premise is that these reflex areas are responsive to stress and changed by it in some specific areas. The hands and feet are thought to have many vital organs.
One theory says that the feet are sensitive to pressure in certain parts since it is connected to other parts through the nerves. Thus, when you rub your toes it changes the pressure around it. Reflexology foot massages are relaxing and can relieve tension from the muscles and joints. The palms and hands are massaged in a similar manner. Usually this is done over the bed where the room temperature allows for a more even spread of warmth.
Conventional reflexology treatments are performed using natural herbs and oils which are obtained from plants and natural materials. Many of these herbs are used for other ailments as well. Modern day reflexology therapists have discovered how to blend these natural and homeopathic elements to create a therapeutic environment where the patient can relax and release stress.
Reflexology can also be used to treat different aches and pains. A few of these include foot pain and pain. Various sections of the feet, such as the heel and balls of the feet, are targeted by reflexology. These reflex points are stimulated with reflexology therapy and relief is often experienced almost instantly. The reflex points in the feet are usually stimulated with repeated rubbing and this has a beneficial effect on circulation.
When Reflexology is used properly, it can help to relieve the symptoms associated with several health conditions. It may feel soothing and relaxing, but it has also been proven to work towards eliminating blockages in the body. Blockages in the body are often responsible for headaches, fatigue, tension and insomnia. If you apply pressure to reflex points in the feet, it might feel soothing and relaxing, but if you apply the same pressure to a different part of the body, it might feel different.
Reflexology can also be used as a complementary medical treatment. Although the techniques do not work as a substitute for Helpful hints a physician's visit or prescription drugs, they can be used as a compliment to what you might be experiencing. For instance, if you are experiencing low back pain, reflexology can be very effective at increasing the freedom in that region and reducing tension. When pressure is inserted, it could be simpler for the spine to heal. By treating the entire body through reflexology, you're treating specific areas at exactly the same time.
Reflexology is not a cure all and it's important to consult with your physician before starting any sort of therapy. There are lots of different kinds of reflexology and each one works with another set of organs. Reflexology is best used as a complement to other medical treatments or if traditional treatment has failed. Some physicians recommend the therapy to patients who have chronic pain or who have recently had surgery. Reflexology can even be used to increase mobility after surgery when it's been done to correct deformities. For this reason, it's necessary to carefully consider the options when determining if Reflexology is ideal for you.