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What is Shiatsu?
What is MI ZAI Shiatsu?
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What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a Japanese word which literally means finger ("shi") pressure ("atsu")
and refers to a form of life energy-based physical therapy developed in ancient Japan. Shiatsu evolved
from anma, an ancient form of Chinese message technique. It is based in the acupuncture
theory which proposes that energy (known as "Ki" or "Chi") flows through the body in
well-defined pathways called meridians. A smooth, balanced flow of energy through the
meridians is considered essential for health and well-being. To accomplish a balanced
flow, the Shiatsu practitioner uses a combination of gentle stretches and direct
pressure, working on the meridians and on acupuncture points (called "tsubos" or
"acu-points") along the meridians.
Shiatsu addresses all levels of a person's body-mind-spirit. Treatments (also called
sessions) are performed on a futon on the floor with the receiver wearing comfortable,
loose-fitting clothing. Sessions are most often experienced as deeply relaxing and
rejuvenating for both the practitioner and the receiver. They are an enjoyable method
of strengthening one's self-healing power and improving physical and psychological
well-being.
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