What is Shiatsu? 

Shiatsu is Japanese for "finger pressure;" it is a type of alternative medicine originating in Japan consisting of finger and palm pressure, stretches, and other massage techniques.

Shiatsu practitioners often promote their techniques as a way to help people relax and cope with issues such as stress, muscle pain, nausea, anxiety, and depression.

About this Decoder

This Decoder enables you to gain immediate benefits from the ancient Japanese massage technique called SHIATSU. Based on acupressure massage, Shiatsu uses the same philosophy and medical theory as acupuncture. This oriental medical system understands the body in terms of a network of energy channels (meridians) through which flows the life-force called Ki (or Chi). In a healthy person Ki flows evenly and smoothly. In this state the elementary forces of Yin and Yang are balanced. Unbalanced Yin and Yang result in either a state of Kyo (sluggish Ki) or Jitsu (overly rapid Ki). Such states invariably result in illness.

Shiatsu (shi finger and atsu pressure) treats (or seeks to prevent) illness by applying finger pressure on various parts of the body. Shiatsu massages enhance stamina, mental ability and general vitality.

Anyone can practise simple Shiatsu and benefit immediately. Treatments for aching shoulders, backaches, and many other conditions can be performed without much effort. Shiatsu is especially suitable for self massage and can be practised anywhere: at home, in the office, in the car or at work.

The Decoder provides 36 illustrations showing where and how the various body parts should be manipulated. In addition there is useful information on meridians and their body associations. Shiatsu is an intuitive massage technique and after very little practice you will know which massage works best and so enhance the general state of well-being and life enjoyment.