AcupressureWritten by C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot
Developed in Asia over 5,000 years ago, acupressure is an ancient healing therapy that utilizes fingers to depress key locations on skin's surface to prompt healing withing body. Similar to acupuncture, acupressure uses same reference points on body that release muscular stress; thus encouraging better blood circulation. Acupressure is very beneficial as it can relieve pain and bring body back into harmonious balance. Acupressure's healing ability promotes stress reduction, improves circulation, relaxes body and strengthens immune system. Acupressure can effectively be used to alleviate acute and chronic conditions such as arthritis, headaches, spinal-muscular pain, and sinus complications. Also a preventative therapy, acupressure is good for fatigue as well. Overall, acupressure is an excellent healing therapy for whole well-being -- mind, body and spirit.
| | ShiatsuWritten by C. Bailey-Lloyd/LadyCamelot
What is Shiatsu? Shiatsu, literally means: Shi = 'finger,' Atsu = 'pressure.' By definition, Shiatsu translates into 'finger pressure.' Recognized by Japanese law in 1955, and in text book, 'Theory and Practice of Shiatsu,'1 Shiatsu is defined as use of fingers and palm (especially thumbs) of an individual's hands whereby pressure is applied to specific parts on body's surface - purposefully for correction of bodily imbalances. Shiatsu therapy is utilized for maintaining and promoting overall health. Furthermore, official definition of Shiatsu was published by medical department of Ministry of Welfare in 1957 as: "Shiatsu technique refers to use of fingers and palm of one's hands to apply pressure to particular sections on surface of body for hte purpose of correcting imbalances of body, and for maintaining and promoting health. It is also a method contributing to healing of specific illnesses." Though there is only one type of Shiatsu, there are varying derivatives of its principle techniques. Shiatsu's beginnings can be traced back to ancient Japan where it was first introduced as 'Teate.' In Japanese, 'Teate' simply means 'hands-on.' Today, it also translates into 'treatment.' The founder of Shiatsu Therapy, Tokujiro Namikoshi was only seven years old in 1912 when he discovered valuable properties of hands on touch. He realized that by using his thumbs to press on his mother's ailing body, he was able to relieve stiffness and pain. Because of these findings, he developed a method of applying pressure that was dependent upon his mother's temperature and stiffness. Due to his determination to heal his mother through his innovative techniques, she was able to make a complete recovery from her rheumatism. 2 In 1940, Shiatsu made its profound entrance into Japanese mainstream when Mr. Namikoshi established Japan Shiatsu School.
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