Shiatsu for Wellness
Shiatsu for Wellness
Shiatsu, a form of Oriental therapy based upon traditional Chinese medicine principles, promotes health and strengthens the body’s healing abilities. Shiatsu works to improve overall health by affecting the internal energy system.
Therapy results in increased vitality, energy and stamina. Shiatsu is beneficial in the treatment of several health conditions including: Poor posture, joint problems, sprains, arthritis, sciatica, acute and chronic neck and back pain, sinusitis, and bronchitis.
Shiatsu therapy releases toxins and muscle tension, stimulates the immune system and allows the individual to de-stress. Some of the immediate physical benefits of Shiatsu are regulation of the automatic nervous system activity and stimulation of the circulatory, lymphatic and hormonal systems.
Techniques are similar to those found in other therapies such as osteopathy, lymphatic drainage, acupressure, and physiotherapy. However, Shiatsu practitioners define physical health conditions and diseases as due to blockages and imbalances in the qi flow throughout the body, which differentiates its diagnosis and treatment from several other massage therapy modalities.
Shiatsu is sometimes referred to as Japanese physiotherapy. Shiatsu combines assisted-stretching techniques and acupressure to restore qi energy balance in the body. Shiatsu also assists the individual in balancing the root causes of underlying health conditions while accounting for psychological and physical functioning.
Somewhat similar to acupuncture in its focus on the meridians and acupoints, Shiatsu therapy treats certain points on the body but without the use of needles. Regular treatments can increase range of motion and improve coordination and mobility.
A career as a Shiatsu therapist is demanding but deeply rewarding. Many Shiatsu therapists practice independently as health care practitioners, establishing a private practice. Others may enter into medical, orthopedic or other massage specialty markets. Spas and health clubs also hire Shiatsu therapists.
Acupuncture & Massage College’s Massage Therapy program offers a comprehensive curriculum of massage techniques. The program is designed for students seeking a career in the field of bodywork.
The Massage Therapy program’s specialization in Japanese Shiatsu enables students to develop experience working with a range of techniques within Asian systems of medicine. Students complete courses in Shiatsu, Swedish and medical massage and the biosciences. Graduates of the program receive both a Shiatsu Certification and a Massage Therapy Diploma, a savings of $2,000.
For information about Acupuncture & Massage College’s Oriental Medicine and Massage Therapy programs call Joe Calareso, Admissions Director, at (305) 595-9500.