Types of therapy
At Paracelsus Recovery, our 360-degree treatment approach includes shiatsu massage. The aim of our shiatsu treatment is to boost the body’s ability to heal itself by restoring the body’s energy balance. In doing so, it promotes relaxation, relieves stress and alleviates pain and tension.
What is shiatsu treatment?
Shiatsu is a form of massage that boosts an individual’s overall health and well-being by applying pressure to various points on the body. Shiatsu massage is a technique that originates from Japan and blends Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and contemporary anatomy and physiology. ‘Shiatsu’ literally means “finger pressure” but Shiatsu therapists also use their thumbs, palms and elbows to press specific points in the body, known as acupressure points. This pressure is applied to soft tissue in a pulsing or rhythmic manner and no oils are used. Shiatsu is a whole body massage that you receive while fully clothed.
Shiatsu works on the principle that energy, known as Qi in TCM, flows around meridian channels in the body. By applying pressure to certain points on these meridians, this can unblock and improve energy flow, helping the body to restore balance and heal. As is the case with any type of massage, the physical pressure applied also relieves tension, releases toxins and alleviates fatigue by improving blood and lymphatic circulation. While Shiatsu may involve some level of discomfort, it does not need to be painful to be effective; even very gentle pressure can be extremely beneficial. As shiatsu is designed to work on not only the physical state but also the mental and emotional, it is possible to feel emotions rise and release during the massage.
What is shiatsu treatment helpful for?
Shiatsu massage has a wide range of benefits, which include relieving pain and muscle tension, reducing stress, promoting relaxation and improving sleep and fatigue. It may also improve mood, relieve headaches and alleviate anxiety and depression. As a result, it is a highly beneficial complementary therapy for treating mental health issues, substance abuse disorders, eating disorders and chronic conditions. Among some of the conditions it is used to treat stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). At Paracelsus Recovery, we include Shiatsu treatment as part of your bespoke holistic treatment programme. No matter the condition you are suffering from, tailored shiatsu massage can support your recovery.
The type of shiatsu massage you are given will depend on your condition and the state of energy (Qi), which your shiatsu therapist will assess before commencing the massage. Based on this evaluation, they will perform various shiatsu techniques to suit your unique needs and treatment goals. For example, for anxious individuals, they may use techniques that allow them to release excess energy. Whereas in the case of fatigue, they would use techniques to stimulate energy flow. Individuals often leave the experience feeling both energised and relaxed.
Is shiatsu evidence-based?
While the benefits of shiatsu are well-reported by both users and practitioners, there is currently limited scientific research to support the use of shiatsu for many of the conditions it is used for. However, a growing body of research is beginning to back up the countless claims of efficacy. For example, in one study, shiatsu was found to have various positive effects on children who had experienced trauma. And for individuals with chronic lower back pain, shiatsu has been shown to improve both quality of life and sleep quality.
Furthermore, in a review of studies into acupressure and shiatsu, there is promising evidence of the efficacy of shiatsu for pain and sleep issues. However, there is less conclusive evidence for stress and anxiety. While anecdotal evidence continues to support the use of shiatsu in the treatment of a variety of conditions, more in-depth and good quality research is needed to solidify findings.
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