What could be more relaxing than a great therapeutic massage? Blending the beneficial properties of alternative medicine and the soothing caress of a healing touch, massages have become extremely popular across the world. Shiatsu, one of the most popular Methods of Massage, is an exquisite hands-on therapy which is based on anatomical and physiological theory. One of the oldest forms of ancient traditional massage, Shiatsu originated in the country of Japan. However, such is the benefit of this form of massage, that the popularity of Shiatsu has spread worldwide. As a Japanese massage therapy or bodywork, Shiatsu strictly speaking involves ?finger pressure?, where the thumbs are used mainly to massage. However, therapists also use elbows, knees and fingers to get the best results. This massage mainly focuses on regulating the flow of Qi which in the Japanese dictionary means, energy in the body. By balancing the energy flows, the Shiatsu massage prevents and treats various types of chronic ailments like insomnia and shoulder pain. History of Shiatsu : As a massage form, Shiatsu finds its existence almost 1000 s of years ago. Adopting the ancient principles and mechanisms of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shiatsu bears somewhat semblance to acupressure. It was in the year 1912, that Tokujiro Namikoshi an ordinary Japanese man made use of the Shiatsu method on his ailing mother. He then called it Appaku, where he made extensive use of his thumbs and palms. It was in the year 1919, that the the very first book on Shiatsu was published by Tenpeki Tamai. This book named ?The Shiatsu Method? had a detailed outlay of all the benefits and methods of Shiatsu. Having opened the first Shiatsu Clinic, Namikoshi, was the man behind this popular massage form. Realizing the benefits of this exquisite form of massage, Shiatsu became officially recognized in the year1957 by Japan as a distinct therapy, belonging to the genre of alternative medicine. Now, the Shiatsu society can be found almost everywhere in Europe and America, touching millions of patients with it healing touch. Advantages of Shiatsu: A unique therapy that is based on anatomy and physiology, there are various styles of Shiatsu. Overall the Shiatsu technique involves the use of fingers and palm to exert pressure in particular sections of the body, with the purpose of correcting the imbalances of the body. This helps in relieving pain thereby maintaining and promoting health. It is also a proven therapeutic method of curing several chronic ailments, and also preventing many such ailments. Experience a languid session of Shiatsu to reap benefits like Reduction or elimination of pain, Improved circulation, maintaining good posture, healthy sleeping conditions, reducing stress and anxiety just to name a few. Interested to know about the different types of Massage, and also the most in in vogue Methods of Massage, scroll through the pages of massage-site.ucoz.com.