Basic Rules to Observe in the Practice of Shiatsu

When you decide to begin practicing shiatsu, always dress in loose fit, comfortable clothing that is made of natural as opposed to synthetic fibers.

Shiatsu is an effective treatment to relieve the pain associated with many health problems including stress-related disorders, menopause and its symptoms, endometriosis, and constipation. One can gain many benefits from Shiatsu like easing of fatigue, reduction of built-up stress and elimination of tension, and improvement in the circulation of blood and the lymphatic fluid.  Shiatsu also relaxes the muscles, loosens the joints and lowers blood pressure.  Further, Shiatsu increases energy level and helps the person regain vitality and stamina. Thus, many favor the use of Shiatsu as a preventative measure to maintain general health.

Shiatsu massage is done with the clothes on so it is best to wear loose and comfortable clothes for the session.  Select those made of natural fibers instead of the synthetic ones to promote the free flow of positive energy or "ki" throughout the body.  It is also important to carefully choose the place where Shiatsu will be practiced to avoid any negative effects on the flow of energy.  The room for Shiatsu session must be clean and neat, without clutter and with adequate space.  It must also be comfortably warm and quiet, away from any distracting noise.

During a Shiatsu session, the patient is made to lie on the floor.  Traditionally, a futon is used for the therapy. A futon is a quilted form of a Japanese mattress and in its absence, any similar padded floor mat may be used as long as the patient feels comfortable. The use of pillows and cushions is also allowed if the patient requires them to be more comfortable.  The aim of Shiatsu is to make the patient feel relaxed and as comfortable as possible.  Equally important is the timing of the session.  Shiatsu is not advisable immediately after a large or heavy meal.  It is best applied when the stomach is empty or at least an hour after a snack or any light meal.  While this is recommended for the patient, it is also applicable to the person performing the therapy so he or she will not be weighted down during the execution of the different Shiatsu maneuvers. Another "no-no" in Shiatsu is the consumption of alcohol before and after the session.

Shiatsu is not recommended for people who have varicose veins.  However, if it is necessary to perform the treatment on a person with varicose veins, pressure should not be exerted on the sore and swollen veins so as not to aggravate the condition.  Similarly, pressure should never be applied to areas with injuries or traumas like cuts, tears, bruises, bone fractures or sprains.

Anybody can receive a Shiatsu treatment.  Even pregnant women can benefit from it.  The therapy can ease many of the discomforts and problems of pregnancy. However, pressure should not be applied on four areas to avoid complications.  These are the stomach, any part of the legs from the knees down, the fleshy web of skin between the forefinger and the thumb, and the shoulder areas at the immediate right and left sides of the neck.  Be sure to inform your practitioner about your pregnancy or any suspicion that you could be pregnant so precautions can be taken. You can be assured that with the Shiatsu treatment, you can achieve the relaxation and calmness that will increase your awareness of your own body and your baby inside.

Generally, Shiatsu is safe but it is not advisable for people with very serious illnesses like cancer, heart ailments or multiple sclerosis.  There may be instances when a highly experienced Shiatsu practitioner may be of help to alleviate some of the symptoms and provide relief from pain, but it is essential to obtain a detailed and accurate appraisal of the person’s health and the course of treatment being administered by the regular physician.