Give Neck And Shoulder Massage. This easy to use technique is a great way to help a friend or loved one to de-stress and unwind. This neck and shoulder massage will soon relax you morning, afternoon, and evening.
Step 1: You will need
  • 1 straight backed chair
  • Some pillows or cushions
  • A volunteer


  1. Step 2: Setting up

    This shoulder and neck massage can be done almost anywhere, but if you can find a quiet space where the person can more easily relax, all the better.
  2. Have your person sit on the chair backwards with their legs behind and the chair back against their chest.
  3. Place one of the cushions between the persons stomach and the chair.
  4. For extra comfort if you want, place another cushion between the persons chest and the chair, leaving it out enough for them to rest their chin on it.
  5. Step 3: Body mechanics

    We want to ensure that our own bodies are working without stress or strain. To achieve this, it is important that we use good posture and work from our centre.
  6. Begin by standing behind the person to be massaged, and slightly to the left.
  7. Now step the left foot forward next to the chair and turn the back foot 45 degrees.
  8. Remember to always keep your back straight and the knees slightly bent at all times. This will allow us a greater range of motion while protecting our own bodies at the same time.
  9. Step 4: First contact

    We begin with a light contact to the middle of the back. Remain there for a moment and try to connect to the person's breathing.
  10. Step 5: Upper trapezius squeeze

    Without breaking contact, move the hands to the upper shoulder next to the neck and start to gently squeeze the trapezius, which is the triangular shaped muscle on each side of the neck, following it down to the tops of the shoulders.
  11. Repeat this 3 times, gradually increasing pressure, but avoiding any discomfort or distress.
  12. Step 6: Finger circling

    Straighten the hands and place one on top of the other with the fingers in line.
  13. Now place fingers of the bottom hand at the top of the neck. Keep the arms extended and move your entire body to make small circles with fingers.
  14. Using firm pressure, continue down the neck, then along the top of the trapezius to the shoulder.
  15. Repeat 3 times
  16. Step 7: Side change

    To change sides, remain with hands in contact as you step the forward foot back and take two small steps to the other side, then step the other foot forward into our behind position.
    Repeat circling 3 times on this side.
  17. Step 8: Neck rub

    Move to the side by stepping the back foot forward and face towards the person. Now make “lobster claws” with your hands, separating the thumbs from the rest of the fingers.
  18. Alternate your hands and gently rub then lift the muscles on the back of the neck. With practice, this becomes a fluid, windshield wiper-type motion and is very relaxing for the person getting the massage.
  19. Repeat this approximately 20 times.
  20. Step 9: Scalp massage

    Move in front of your partner and place the fingers at the hairline on the back of the head. Starting from the centre, make tiny circles with the fingers, moving outward.
  21. Continue up the back of the head, massaging the scalp as if you were shampooing the hair. Once you reach the top, move back down the sides of the head.
  22. Move back to the side of your partner and repeat the neck rub 10 times.
  23. Step back to the behind position, form the hands into loose fists and begin gentle tapping on the back and shoulders with the little finger side of the fist. Cover the entire upper back and shoulders.
  24. Open your hands with fingers together and proceed to do "karate chops" along the trapezius and upper back. Remember we are only trying to stimulate, so easy with the pressure.
  25. Step 10: Finishing strokes

    Finish with light downward strokes from the shoulders to the low back. The final strokes slide off, finally breaking contact.
  26. And that is how to do a quick and easy neck And shoulder massage the VideoJug way. Be sure to check out all the other massage and relaxation techniques on the VideoJug website.



















How To Give A Stress Relieving Foot Massage





Use our easy to follow guide to learn the basic techniques for a foot massage. Why not surprise that someone special in your life with these easy to learn foot massage skills?
Step 1: You will need
  • 1 Pillow or cushion
  • 1 Towel
  • Cosmetic alcohol
  • 1 Cotton
  • Oil
  • 1 Stool
  • 1 Volunteer
  1. Step 2: Setting Up

    Prior to starting, it is a good idea to allow your volunteer to wash and dry their feet. This is a very relaxing massage, so you should try to find a quiet area where you will not be disturbed. You can help set the mood for relaxation by putting on some soft music and lighting some candles. The ideal location is somewhere the person can lie down comfortably, like a massage table, bed or sofa, and their feet can extend slightly over the edge. The pillow is placed under the knees to help support the low back, while we use the towel underneath the feet to catch any excess oil.
    Position yourself at their feet, with the toes at about chest level.

    "
  2. Step 3: Getting started

    Do a visual check of the feet for any open cuts, bandages, or possible Athlete's Foot, as these are all reasons not to do the massage.
  3. Apply some alcohol to the cotton and wipe down both feet thoroughly.
  4. Place a small quantity of oil in a cupped hand and warm it by rubbing it between both hands. Spread the oil over the foot up to the ankle by using light even strokes.
  5. Step 4: Warm up

    Taking the foot in both hands, we begin doing twists by pulling toward ourselves with the heel of one hand while gently pushing away with the other. Start at the top near the toes and work your way down to the heel then back up again.
  6. Repeat 3 Times
  7. Place the outside hand on the topside of the foot for support, and extend the second knuckle of the index finger of the other hand. Now sandwich the foot between the two hands, while rotating the knuckle by turning the wrist. Move the knuckle down and repeat. Carry on over the entire sole of the foot.
  8. Step 5: Thumb work

    Place the fingers of both hands on the topside of the foot, and starting at the pads of the toes, begin making downward strokes with the thumbs. After finishing the toes, move down to the ball of the foot, then the arch, and finally the bottom of the heel.
    Now return to the arch and make circles with the thumbs with moderate pressure.
  9. Once more with the outside hand supporting the topside of the foot, we now take the thumb of the other hand and begin doing pressure points down the instep, starting at knuckle of the big toe. Release the pressure, move down slightly and repeat. Carry on until you reach the back of the heel.
  10. Now the outside hand moves to support the foot from underneath the ankle. With our other hand we will grasp the Achilles' tendon between thumb and index finger and stroke towards the heel. Repeat this 5 times.
  11. Step 6: Top and sides

    Both hands now open and support the foot from below with the fingers extended we begin to make circles around the ankles, again using a moderate pressure.
  12. Without breaking the rhythm of our circling, the fingers start to move around the sides of the foot and continue up to the toes.
  13. At this point, the circling becomes a back and forth movement as we massage the top of the foot, focusing between the tendons.
  14. Carry on for about a minute.
  15. Step 7: Toe Massage

    Finishing at the base of the toes, we will now begin to slowly tug, twist and pull on each toe, alternating hands as we move inwards from the outer toes.
  16. Step 8: Finishing strokes

    We end by repeating the foot twists, but this time we slowly begin to lighten pressure with each twist until the hands lightly lift off the foot.
  17. Step 9: Repeat on the other foot

    Once again place some oil in your cupped hand and repeat the steps on the other foot.
















How To Massage Your Baby For Health And Happiness

How To Massage Your Baby For Health And Happiness

Massaging your baby is beneficial on many levels including relaxing your baby, helping to reduce crying while improving the immune system, and strengthening the growing bond between you. Learn how To Massage Your Baby For Health And Happiness.



                                                                                               
Step 1: You will need
  • Cream or baby oil (no essential oils)
  • A soft mat or blanket
  • 2 towels
  1. Step 2: Setting up

    It is best to practice when your baby is calm and at least a half an hour after eating. It is important that the room temperature is warm, approximately 78F/24C, as the baby should either completely undressed or wearing a diaper. A good time is right after the bath since the baby is all ready undressed and the room is warm.
  2. It is also important to have everything set up ahead of time so that you can focus on your baby. Lay a towel over a soft mat or blanket and place the cream or oil within easy reach.
  3. Dry your baby thoroughly if just bathed, and lay them down on the towel face up. Place a little cream or oil in your hands and warm it by rubbing the hands together.
  4. Step 3: Face and head

    Using the pads of your fingers and extremely light pressure, begin making light strokes on the forehead, starting at the brow line and going up to the top of the head.
  5. Remember that this is supposed to be fun. Talking, singing, and other verbal communication will stimulate your baby's mind and reinforce the developing bonds between you. Continue with strokes from the bridge of the nose along the cheekbones towards the ears, and then do circles around the mouth. You will then trace the jaw line back from the chin and arrive at the back of the head and neck where you can make gentle strokes down to the shoulders.
  6. Step 4: Shoulders and arms

    Begin making smooth strokes from the shoulder down to the hands, letting your baby grasp your fingers as they slide off. Next hold the arm between the thumb and index finger and gently glide down the arm, using caution at the arm pit and elbow as these are sensitive areas.
  7. Step 5: Chest and stomach

    Now bring your fingers to the centre of the baby's chest and make smooth movements from the centre out towards the shoulders, starting just below the collar bones and slowly moving down until you reach the stomach. This is a powerful part of the massage as it helps promote good digestion, move gases, and relieve colic. This is often called the “I Love U” stroke, as the movements will be like the letters I, L, and U. You begin the “I” by starting under the ribs on YOUR right side and make a stroke down. Next, start under the ribs on your left side, stroke across and then down forming the “L.” Then for the “U” you will start on the lower belly to your left, move up under the ribs and over, and down the right side again. Repeat this several times and finish with some circular strokes over the entire belly, always moving in a clockwise direction.
  8. Step 6: Legs and feet

    Move down to the legs and make gentle strokes from the thigh to the ankle, and then take the leg between the fingers of both hands and lightly roll the leg back and forth as you move down. Repeat this several times on each leg. Now take both legs and gently press them against the belly, flexing the hips and knees. Stretch the legs out and then repeat several times. Gently lay down one leg and begin lightly squeezing each of the toes, then massage the soles of the foot down to the heel. Return to the toes and repeat, then continue with the other foot.
  9. Step 7: Back

    Carefully roll your baby onto his or her stomach. Starting at the head, make long general strokes down the neck, the back, over the legs and down to the feet. Alternate hands and repeat. We want to avoid any direct pressure on the spine, simply making light contact. Starting near the neck, start massaging the shoulders and upper back with your finger tips, then continue making circular movements over the rest of the back. Now with one hand, place a finger on either side of the back bone lightly wiggle back and forth as your hand moves down. Repeat this several times.
  10. Move the hands down to the legs and make smooth downward strokes to the heels, being especially gentle behind the knee.
  11. Step 8: Finishing strokes

    Once more make full body strokes starting at the top of the head towards the feet. After two or three times let the hands float off.


    What a Typical Massage Therapy Session is Like

    What a Typical Massage Therapy Session is Like

    A typical massage therapy session is between 40 and 90 minutes. Your massage will begin with a brief consultation and review of symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.
    You will be asked to undress (many people keep their underwear on) while the massage therapist is out of the room, and lie face down under a sheet on a padded massage table.
    The massage therapist will knock on the door to make sure you are ready. The massage therapist re-enters the room and will then adjust the face rest and pillows to ensure that you are comfortable and properly positioned. Tell the massage therapist if you are too warm or cold.
    The massage therapist uses a light oil or lotion on the skin and begins the massage. A full body massage usually begins on the back and then moves down to the legs. You will then be asked to turn over so you are face up. The massage continues on your arms, legs, neck, and abdomen.
    You are underneath the sheet at all times, and in North America, only the part of the body being treated at any one time is uncovered.
    After the massage, the massage therapist leaves the room so you can get changed.
    Take your time getting up. If you sit or stand too quickly you may feel lightheaded or dizzy.

    Will Massage Therapy Hurt?

    Massage therapy shouldn't hurt. Occasionally there is mild aching when the massage therapist applies pressure over "knots" and other areas of muscle tension. If the pressure is too strong for you, let the massage therapist know.

    How Will I Feel After a Massage?

    Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. Occasionally, people experience mild temporary aching for a day.

    Precautions

    Massage therapy is not recommended for certain people:
    • People with infectious skin disease, rash, or open wounds
    • Immediately after surgery
    • Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recommended by your doctor
    • People prone to blood clots. There is a risk of blood clots being dislodged. If you have heart disease, check with your doctor before having a massage
    • Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage in pregnant women should be done by massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage.
    Massage should not be done directly over bruises, inflamed skin, unhealed wounds, tumors, abdominal hernia, or areas of recent fractures.

    Additional Massage Tips





  1. Don't eat a heavy meal before the massage.






  2. If it's your first time at the clinic or spa, arrive at least 10 minutes early to complete the necessary forms. Otherwise, arrive 5 minutes early so you can have a few minutes to rest and relax before starting the massage.







  3. Reflexology


    Reflexology

    Introduction to Reflexology

    According to Bill Flocco, Director of the American Academy of Reflexology in California, "Reflexology is a powerful natural health science that studies the relationship of the reflex areas in the feet, hands and the ears to the rest of the body so that these areas can be worked on with the fingers and thumbs in a manner that will lead to improved health and the maintenance of good health."
    The term reflexology is used to mean reflection rather than reflex. The idea is that in reflexology, the reflex zones found on the soles of feet, palms of the hands and ear will act as small "mirrors", reflecting the whole body structure. It is different from acupuncture, where tiny needles (instead of hands of the reflexologists) are used to stimulate the reflex zones over the whole body. It is a hand-on treatment intended for vitality and well-being.
    A person who is qualified to practice reflexology is called a reflexologist.
    In reflexology, it is believed that there is a "vital energy" that is circulating between organs of the human body, which penetrates into every living cell. Whenever this energy is blocked, the zone of blockage will be affected. The reflex zones can reflect the blockage of energy in different organs. Therefore, if someone has a problem in a particular organ, when a reflexologist presses on the corresponding reflex zone or zones, the person will experience pain.
    The pain is believed to originate from the deposition of crystals in the reflex zone. With proper massaging techniques, these crystalline structures could be broken down and the pain would be gone. Simultaneously, the pressure applied to the reflex zones by the reflexologist is thought to pass through the nerves to dissipate energy blocks. It is therefore believed that reflexology can help heal organ sickness.
    Reflexology is not a part of modern medical science. There are no reliable scientific studies demonstrating its effectiveness as a medical treatment. The 'crystalline structures' rationale has no support in physiology. This is not to say that foot massage cannot be pleasurable and helpful in relieving stress.

    Introduction

    Many people like to go for a massage session after work in order to relax themselves. Reflexology is one of the massage techniques being used for this purpose. However, reflexology is far more complicated than a typical massage session to serve people. There are different types of charts which purport to show a relationship between the foot, or hand, or ear and the rest of the body.

    The history

    The ancient Indian, Chinese, and Egyptians were the first to practice it. It is presumed that reflexology originated in ancient Egypt. The earliest evidence of reflexology study was found in a 4000 year old Egyptian tomb.
    The above image was ancient people who are treating their counterparts with foot massage and hand massage. In fact, this is an image found in an Egyptian tomb dating back to 2330 B.C. The translations of the hieroglyphics in the wall painting, according to the International Institute of Reflexology, are:
    "Don't hurt me." the patient said.
    The practitioner replied, "I shall act so you praise me."
    Therefore this provides some evidence that by that time, the ancient Egyptians had used the principle of reflexology in order to help treat people. Having said that, some scholars believe that the picture is not showing reflexology at all but is depicting a manicure or pedicure.
    In 1913, Dr William Fitzgerald noted that specific parts of the body could have an anesthetic effect on a related area. Developing this theory, he divided the body into ten equal and vertical zones, ending in the fingers and toes. He concluded that pressure on one part of the zone could affect everything else within that zone.
    In the 1930s, Eunice Ingham, a therapist, further developed and refined the zone therapy into what is now known as reflexology.

    How can reflexology help?

    The body has the ability to heal itself. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, it is in a state of "imbalance", and "vital energy pathways" are believed to be blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology is believed to restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing.
    A reflexologist uses hands only to apply gentle pressure to the reflex zones on the feet, palm of hands or the ears. For each person the application and the effect of the therapy are unique. Reflexologist believe that sensitive and trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet. And by working on these points the reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination is improved. This gentle therapy is believed to encourage the body to heal itself at its own pace, often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.
    How reflexology works? In psychological terms, the power of suggestion serves mainly as the primary factor, and placebo also has play a role in making reflexology works. Also, reflexology enhances function of lymphatic system and restores proper chemical balance in the body. Thus, it helps to ensure better health. Apart from this, It is believed that nerve endings are unable to transmit their impulses because of crystalline deposits that build up and block their pathway. Reflexology is believed to clear these crystalline deposits.

    Basic principle

    Dr. William Fitzgerald, who introduced the reflexology treatment to the West, found that pressure on particular parts of the body would have a special effect on a related area in 1913. For developing his theory, he divided the body into ten equal, vertical zones. Under his conclusion, the pressure on one part of a zone would affect everything else within that zone and the reflexive areas on the feet and hands have the linkage to other organs of the body within the same zone.
    Some practitioners proposed that the reflex is due to the stimuli of nerve axon, where the nerve fibres are connected to the respective zones in brain.


    Practice

    Reflexologists apply pressure on "reflex zones" found on the feet, hands and the ears, which are said to correspond to the different parts of the body. Application is done through thumb, finger and hand technique. Reflex areas, like hand and foot, composed of 7200 nerve endings are stimulated by pressure applied. An improved instruction to every gland, single part and organ of the body could be achieved by such a health science. The body is then believed to pursue a biologically correct, strengthened and reinforced state.
    The image on the right shows the reflex zones found on the sole of the feet. Actually, one may found the reflex zones organized in a way such that it represents the whole body system.

    Reflexology treatment

    First of all, there should be a preliminary talk with the practitioner before treatment. The reflexologist then begins to work on the client's feet, or hands if necessary, noting problem areas. There may be discomfort in some places, but it is fleeting, and also an indication of congestion or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body. For the most of the part, the sensation is pleasant and soothing. Reflexology can help relax the client and is believed to stimulate the body's own healing mechanisms. Usually a treatment session lasts for about one hour. For some cases, a treatment can last as long as about two hours. A course of treatment varies in length depending on the need of the client body. The reflexologist will discuss this with the patient at the first session.

    Reported reactions

    Case studies, not statistical conclusions, demonstrate that people treated by experts in reflexology, report a lot of reactions, including the following:
    During treatment
    1. A sense of well-being
    2. A sense of relaxation
    3. Client may sigh, breathe deeply or yawn
    4. Fall asleep
    5. Client may feel like laughing or crying
    6. Experience a tingling sensation in the feet or through the body
    7. Pin stick type feelings in the feet over congested areas
    8. Temperature change either hot or cold
    9. Nausea
    10. A sense of unease due to emotional problems
    11. A sense of comfort
    12. A sense of lethargy, nausea or tearfulness
    After treatment
    1. Cold-like symptoms such as a running nose as catarrh and sinus congestion are cleared.
    2. A cough as mucus is cleared from the lungs and respiratory passages
    3. More frequent urination
    4. More frequent bowel movements
    5. Flatulence
    6. Headaches
    7. Increased sweating
    8. Skin rash
    9. Yawning and tiredness
    10. Energizable

    Alleged long-term effects


    Reduced stress and induced relaxation

    Many people try reflexology as their first foray into the world of massage, finding the treatment more relaxing than a general body massage. During the treatment, clients are only required to relax and expose their feet to the reflexologist. Treatment components also include soft music, essence oil and soft lighting, which combine to create a drowsy effect. Clients often fall asleep and describe the experience as the most relaxing hours of their day. After the treatment, they describe themselves as having a "refresh walk".
    Approximately 75% of all illnesses are said to be related to stress. Stress can lead to headaches, neck and shoulder stiffness, as well as contracting the common cold and the more serious influenza. "Prevention is better than the cure", it is said, and so it is not surprising to see the growing popularity of reflexology as a means of relieving stress.

    Feeling of increased energy

    Reflexology opens pathways to renew ourselves and boost our energy level, immediately after treatment and for several days afterwards. It could keep us free from the feeling of lacking motivation, tiredness, and inability to concentrate.

    Alleged benefits

    Reflexology advocates say that reflexology not only relieves symptoms, but also acts on improvements of our body as a whole. Some conditions are very much benefited from reflexology therapy. Examples are:
    1. Acute and chronic conditions
    2. Stress related conditions
    3. Sleep disorders
    4. Sports injuries
    5. Preventative therapy

    Current status

    Reflexology is a widespread practice in Asia, where foot reflexology (also known as foot massage) is quite popular. Although many people are skeptical about the concepts underlying this practice, its use is spreading, perhaps because it is being taken simply as a relaxing massage therapy. It is not the practice that reflexologists use foot reflexology only, they prefer to use a combination of foot, hand and ear reflexology to obtain a much better result.
    Sales of foot reflexology equipment, such as rollers, are increasing rapidly. In addition, many new instruments using the same principle are being marketed, such as whole body vacuum cans. A kind of socks printing the footmap of the reflex zone was developed based on reflexology. People can easily locate the wanted zones by wearing the socks and apply pressure on them. Though ours are not professional hand, the "reflexology socks" gained very much popularity in Asia region like Taiwan and China. Inexpensive how-to books enabling people to perform the exercises by themselves are also available for self-help practice. Reflexologists advise caution in applying the techniques to oneself, and recommend people to consult an expert before using them if they are pregnant or have a chronic disease.

    Other applications


    Reflexology used on children

    Advocates claim reflexology is just as effective when used on children as any adult. Some advocates go further and claim it is more effective. Advocates have also suggested that reflexology can also help child to create an awareness of self.

    Breema

    Breema


    Breema bodywork is a form of physical therapy performed on the floor with the recipient fully clothed. It consists of rhythmical and gentle leans and stretches which leads to deep relaxation, increased vitality, and stimulation of the self-healing processes of the body. Sessions can be any length of time, although 50 minutes is common.
    Self-Breema exercises are performed sitting on the floor, lying down, or standing, and have similar effects as Breema bodywork.
    Breema is based on the Nine Principles of Harmony:

    Nine Principles of Harmony

    Body Comfortable
    When we look at the body, not as something separate, but as an aspect of a unified whole, there is no place for discomfort.
    No Extra
    To express our true nature, nothing extra is needed.
    Firmness and Gentleness
    Real firmness is always gentle. Real gentleness is always firm. When we are present, we naturally manifest firmness and gentleness.
    Full Participation
    The most natural way of moving and living is with full participation. Full participation is possible when body, mind, and feelings are united.
    Mutual Support
    The more our Being participates, the more we are able to support life and recognize that Existence supports us. Giving and receiving support take place simultaneously.
    No Judgment
    The atmosphere of nonjudgment gives us a taste of acceptance of ourselves as we are in the moment. When we come to the present, we are free from judgment.
    Single Moment/Single Activity
    Each moment is new, fresh, totally alive. Each moment, when it’s an expression of our true nature, is complete by itself.
    No Hurry/No Pause
    In the natural rhythm of life energy, there is no hurry and no pause.
    No Force
    When we let go of assumptions of separation, we let go of force.

    Shiatsu

    Shiatsu


     

    Shiatsu (Japanese) - is a massage technique originating in Japan. Shiatsu therapy was developed by Tokujiro Namikoshi and follows similar principles to western massage using the principles of anatomy and physiology. The thumbs, palms, and fingers (no knees or elbows are used in the foundation form of shiatsu therapy) are used to apply pressure to designated areas of the body.
    Shiatsu therapy is not related to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), however some practitioners combine the two fields. Namikoshi Sensei had no background in TCM and only developed his therapy through trial and error, finally gaining acceptance in the late fifties. The confusion about TCM and any meridian connection is due to a Japanese law at the time, that to practice any hands on therapy one had to have a license in Amma Therapy, which Namikoshi Sensei was forced to get, and he gained separate recognition for Shiatsu Therapy from these other hands on modalities (again in the late fifties). Although the points may look similar in location the actual application and essence of practice between Shiatsu therapy and TCM are very different. The essence of shiatsu is "Diagnosis and Therapy combined".
    There are many derivative forms of shiatsu therapy all over the world and most were developed by a graduate of The Japan Shiatsu College giving them a well grounded education in the foundation of shiatsu. These very same instructors gave workshops anywhere from a few days to a few months to introduce their ideas to already trained practitioners.
    Shiatsu Time Line:(short version)
    • 1912 Namikoshi Sensei first used his technique on his ailing mother
    • 1919 Namikoshi Sensei found therm term Shiatsu and decided to use it to describe his therapy.
    • 1925 Namakoshi Sensei opened his first clininc for Shiatsu Therapy. Shizuto Masunaga Sensei born.
    • 1940 Namakoshi Sensei opens first Shiatsu college.
    • 1953 Namakoshi Sensei and his sons introduce Shiatsu Therapy to the USA, Dr BJ Palmer, father of Chiropractic medicine.
    • 1955 Shiatsu Therapy first recognized by Japan government but only in conjunction with amma and moxibustion.
    • 1957 Shiatsu Therapy officially recognized by Japan as a separate and distinct therapy.
    • 1958 Shizuto Masunaga graduates from Japan shiatsu College, begins to teach Psychology at the college as well.
    • 1964 Shiatsu officially defined by the Ministry of Health and Welfare in Japan.
    "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 illnesses."
    This being said, the following three points were set as the major premise of shiatsu therapy:
    1) To use the bare hands.(no tools, elbows, knees or feet)
    2) to press the surface of the body(no rubbing, stroking or pulling)
    3) to aim for the maintainance and enhancement of health or recovery of illness.
    Shiatsu is used to treat the following symptoms:
    1. back pain
    2. migraine and many kinds of headaches
    3. whiplash injuries and neck stiffness
    4. reduced mobility
    5. menstrual pain
    6. digestive problems
    7. asthmatic symptoms
    8. sports injuries
    9. frozen shoulder
    10. sciatica
    11. hypertension