When we are in pain, our instinctive response is to press or hold the area that bothers us. This simple action somewhat stimulates the body to react and naturally relieve the discomfort. Shiatsu uses the same principle, combined with a physiological and anatomical understanding, to help with seven physiological functions:
1 Vitalizing the skin
SHIATSU helps maintain younger healthier skin.
2 Limbering the muscles
SHIATSU helps in preventing injuries and motion limitations.
3 Stimulation and circulation of body fluids
SHIATSU detoxifies/activates cells and supports the immune system.
4 Regulating the neural functions
SHIATSU helps in balancing the autonomic nerve system and builds a strong body to manage stress.
5 Controlling the endocrine system
SHIATSU helps in regulating hormonal balances and normalizes organ function.
6 Balancing the skeletal system
SHIATSU helps in maintaining good posture and increases range of motion.
7 Conditioning the digestive system
SHIATSU enhances digestion/absorption by increasing blood circulation.
In this manner, Shiatsu exerts a comprehensive influence on the entire body, facilitating the activation of the body’s inherent self-healing capacity and the regulation of both physiological and psychological functions.
The Shiatsu systematized and disseminated by its founder, Tokujiro Namikoshi, is referred to as Namikoshi Shiatsu. The following section outlines the three fundamental characteristics of Shiatsu as articulated by Namikoshi.
Namikoshi Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on therapy from Japan that was spread throughout the world by the founder Tokujiro Namikoshi.
The three major characteristics of Namikoshi Shiatsu are:
1. Whole-body Treatment
Namkoshi Shiatsu has Kata, which is the basic form of applying pressure to the whole body.
Whole-body treatment improves blood circulation, releases muscle tension, and normalizes the autonomic nervous system, which helps the body to revive and heal itself.
2. Anterior Cervical
Whole-body treatment begins with applying pressure to the anterior cervical region. This activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which in turn restores energy and calm to the body. Applying pressure starting from the anterior cervical region makes it easier to loosen the body.
3. Abdomen treatment
Tokujiro Sensei lived to the age of 94. One of his secrets to longevity was doing self-treatment on the abdomen once every day to stay healthy. Tokujiro Sensei said that a healthy person’s abdomen is soft like a marshmallow.
