Traditional Eastern medicine has been used to heal people holistically for thousands of years. One of its most popular exports is Shiatsu massage, now practised in many countries around the world. So, what is Shiatsu massage, and how can it help you?

Shiatsu – pronounced shee-aytsu – massage is a holistic energy and acupressure therapy from Japan, with roots Anma, a traditional form of Japanese massage and more distantly in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

Let’s explore 8 facts about Shiatsu, including Shiatsu massage benefits and uses:

1. Shiatsu massage shares similarities with TCM

There are two main types of shiatsu massage: Namikoshi shiatsu and Masunaga shiatsu. The latter type of Shiatsu massage therapy follows the TCM theory that a network of invisible meridians transports vital Qi energy around the body. Stress and disease are believed to be caused by blockages in this energy meridian system.

By applying pressure to various acupoints on the medians, Shiatsu can identify Qi blockages and allow Qi to flow freely through your body.

2. Shiatsu massage is based on tui na massage

Shiatsu is a Japanese massage therapy developed after TCM came to Japan in the Middle Ages. Tui na massage (a TCM therapy) was brought to Japan, and Japanese bodywork therapists modified it into Anma massage. Shiatsu massage was developed from tui na and Anma, using similar techniques.

3. Shiatsu doesn’t use massage oil

Unlike the regular full-body massage you get at a spa, Shiatsu doesn’t use any massage oil. You don’t even remove your clothes. If you’re wearing loose clothing, you’re good to go!

4. Shiatsu is helpful for a wide range of symptoms

Shiatsu massage treats muscle aches and pains, and research supports using Shiatsu as a complementary therapy to improve back pain¹.

While it does not diagnose or cure any condition, Shiatsu may also help symptoms such as:

• Arthritis
• Sore muscles
• Headaches and migraines
• Injuries
• Fibromyalgia
• Poor posture
• Allergies
• Anxiety and depression
• Digestive disorders
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Low libido

5. Shiatsu can be energising or calming

Masunaga shiatsu adapts different manual techniques to your needs. For example, if your energy is low, the therapist will apply energising and dynamic techniques to revitalise your Qi and enhance yang energy.

If you’re anxious, hot, or wound up (more yang energy), the session will help you relax. This may include holding, stretching, and gentle kneading techniques. You should leave the session feeling more balanced.

6. Shiatsu can boost your mood

A Shiatsu massage can lift your mood and reduce stress. Studies show it lowers anxiety associated with traumatic injuries like burns². It may also boost the feel-good brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine, which promote happiness and motivation.

7. You may experience some stiffness after Shiatsu

The meaning of shiatsu massage is ‘finger pressure.’ People are normally treated on a massage table, low massage couch or bed where the therapist uses their weight to apply deep pressure to release toxins and encourage healthy blood circulation and lymph flow.

Shiatsu massage is not supposed to hurt. Practitioners apply a soft, deep pressure, which is totally painless. In a small number of cases, patients may experience some muscle stiffness. This isn’t dangerous and should disappear within a few days.

8. Shiatsu is a holistic approach

Your Shiatsu practitioner will take a health and symptom history when formulating your treatment plan. They may also suggest dietary changes and exercises to support Shiatsu treatment.