Shiatsu: what are its benefits?

“Shi” means finger, “atsu” means pressure. In Japanese, the ideogram that represents it shows two people supporting each other.

The techniques are different, Namikoshi focuses on the symptoms, Masunaga instead works on energy blockages, identifying the causes of our ailments. “The first approach with the patient tries to assess the state of the Hara, the vital center that is located under the navel,” explains Nunzia Cofone, Shiatsu operator in Rome. “It means that, even when the person claims to suffer from cervical, it is not said that, instead, his neck pain has no other causes. That’s why the Shiatsu treatment will involve the whole body, legs, arms, chest.”

Away with the pains

The pressures exerted by Shiatsu treatment are able to intervene on back pain, headaches, cervical pain and help to regulate lymphatic circulation and stabilize breathing, heartbeat and body temperature in the ideal parameters. Those with digestive problems can also benefit, as well as those suffering from insomnia or generalized anxiety.

But Shiatsu is able to relieve even those suffering from important diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. In the first case, being able to relax helps to recover the center of oneself, in the second it favors the security of one’s motor skills. “An illness or a physical trauma often changes the posture of the person – says Nunzia Cofone – Shiatsu helps to rebalance it. And it can also be practiced to those who are in wheelchairs or have undergone cycles of chemotherapy ».

How are you feeling?

Precisely because it involves the vital centers, Shiatsu treatment should not be practiced if you suffer from major heart disease, if there are ulcers, inflamed nerves, phlebitis or recent fractures.

The first cognitive interview between patient and operator is of great importance and it is essential to put yourself in expert hands. It is possible, in fact, depending on the case, to leave out the pressures of Shiatsu and work on the bands, that is, on the connective tissue.

To obtain results, only one treatment may be sufficient but, in general, 4 meetings are planned. “It happens, sometimes, – explains the Shiatsu operator – that the recipient responds quickly to the first treatment or that he struggles to let go; In this case, more sessions are necessary.”

For the little ones

Shiatsu treatment can also be practiced on newborns and infants. In particular, it promotes the sleep/wake rhythm and is effective in preventing and counteracting the notorious gas colic of the first months of life. Not to mention, but this applies to all ages, that physical contact with hands that move with wisdom is able to defuse tensions, stress and anxiety.