Shiatsu Therapy for Common Health Issues

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

• A unique, complete medical system with a solid theoretical basis rooted in ancient Taoist philosophy, dating back over 5,000 years.
• Provides an integral framework for understanding, interpreting, and organizing interventions in the human health-disease process.

Key Principles of TCM

• Views the human being as intimately connected to their natural environment, with disease seen as a deviation from natural conditions.
• Describes diseases as caused by wind, cold, dampness, heat, and other environmental factors.
• Organizes internal functions of the body into systemic relationships, such as the Lung Channel, Large Intestine Channel, Stomach Channel, and Spleen Channel.

Qi and Meridians

• Qi is the energy that flows through the body, sustaining physical, mental, psychological, emotional, and spiritual functions.
• Meridians are conduits for the circulation of Qi, located in the 'Exterior' layer of the body.
• Disruption or sluggishness of Qi flow can lead to illness.

Shiatsu

• A form of Japanese acupressure that corrects energy imbalances by applying pressure at specific points on meridians.
• Similar to acupressure but covers the whole body and tends to apply pressure for shorter periods.

Effects of Shiatsu

• Self-regulates pain and discomfort through neural release of Endorphins.
• Increases energy to the entire body.
• Relaxes the body, relieves stress, and reduces fatigue.
• Restores overall well-being by invigorating the skin, stimulating circulatory systems, balancing the endocrine and digestive systems, and facilitating normal organ function.
• Relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and restores homeostasis.
• Improves general health and stimulates circulatory, hormonal, and immune systems.

Indications and Contraindications of Shiatsu

• Indications: musculo-skeletal and psychological problems, headaches, migraines, stiff necks and shoulders, backaches, and various other health issues.
• Contraindications: first 3 months of pregnancy, acute illness with fever, localized conditions such as varicose veins, wounds, fractures, and inflamed joints.
• Care should be taken when treating patients with osteoporosis, chemotherapy, chronic fatigue syndrome, and high blood pressure.

Application of Shiatsu

• Can be performed with the patient clothed or unclothed.
• No lubricants are used.

This quiz assesses your knowledge of Shiatsu therapy in treating various health problems, including musculoskeletal, psychological, and respiratory issues. Test your understanding of Shiatsu's applications and benefits.