A shiatsu massage is a deep tissue treatment that amplifies the body’s ability to heal itself and provides several health benefits. If you’re curious about this Japanese treatment, here’s what you should know before booking an appointment.

What to Know About Shiatsu

How does it work?

A shiatsu therapist will use their thumbs, fingers, hands, elbows, and knees to apply pressure to certain areas on your body. They’ll compress pressure points and perform joint manipulating stretches to correct your body’s imbalances and promote energy flow. This relaxing experience relieves pain and stress and stimulates the nervous, immune, and circulatory systems.

What are the benefits?

Since the massage positively influences the body’s key systems, it’ll promote your overall health and mobility, as well as ease aches and pains. Shiatsu therapy also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which will encourage healing to repair strained muscles and promote relaxation.

Will it hurt?

This massage shouldn’t hurt, as an experienced therapist knows how to apply appropriate pressure during the appointment. Before the massage, your therapist will ask about your health history to determine if there are any previous or present conditions that will affect the treatment. Tell your therapist if you bruise easily or experience discomfort during the massage, so they can adjust their technique to ensure you have a relaxing experience.

Can I get a treatment while on medication or pregnant?

It’s safe to enjoy a shiatsu massage while taking medication. The therapist will note your current medical conditions during the health history inquiry and will make any necessary adjustments to the treatment. Shiatsu massage can alleviate some symptoms of pregnancy discomfort, like lower back pain and swelling. Like a prenatal massage, shiatsu improves blood circulation, which helps relieve muscle tension and reduce swelling.

If you want to experience a shiatsu massage, contact the team of therapists at Aisen Chiryo Doin in Honolulu, HI. This clinic specializes in shiatsu treatments, and their owner, Sensei Fumihikio Indei, is a Doctor of Shiatsu with over 40 years of experience. They’re dedicated to making each client feel relaxed and rejuvenated and will even make house calls to perform treatments. To get more information about their massages, visit the website or call (808) 596-7354.