Shiatsu (Japanese from “Shi” meaning finger and “Atsu” meaning pressure)
Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese hands-on therapy based on anatomical and physiological theory and is regulated as a licensed medical therapy with the Ministry of Health and Welfare in Japan. Shiatsu is an evolving form. Various styles (called Derivative Shiatsu) incorporate (to differing degrees) aspects of Japanese massage traditions, Chinese Medicine practice, and “Western” anatomy and physiology.
“Shiatsu technique refers to the use of fingers and palm of one’s hand to apply pressure to particular sections on the surface of the body for the purpose of correcting the imbalances of the body, and for maintaining and promoting health. It is also a method contributing to the healing of specific pain.” —Japanese medical department of the Ministry of Welfare (current Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare) in December 1957.
Deep Tissue
While similar to a classic Swedish Massage, this type of massage uses deeper pressures to really address trouble areas. It focuses on reaching deep layers of connective tissue found beneath muscle and fascia to alleviate discomfort and to help break up adhesions (“knots”). Good for muscle tension, chronic pain, and those seeking work on a specific problem area.
