Golux Studio, Inc. - Bodywork Glossary

Bodywork Glossary

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Glossary of Bodywork Modalities

SHIATSU:
Shiatsu is a compound word, "shi" meaning finger, "atsu" meaning pressure. Shiatsu, sometimes called acupressure or pressure point therapy, bears many similarities to acupuncture, lending it the name "acupuncture without needles". While Shiatsu was developed in Japan in the 20th Century, it takes its root from two ancient Chinese practices, Do-In, which resembles yoga, and Amma, which is a form of massage.

As with acupuncture, shiatsu is based on traditional oriental medical theories which define health as the balanced and harmonious flow of energy. This energy which animates all life is referred to as Chi or Ki. Although the western medical model does not hold a complete explanation of the nature of Chi, acupuncture first proved its efficacy in the West as a substitution for anesthesia during brain surgery. Chi is organized in the body in twelve major channels, called meridians, which are named for the organs of the major body systems. These twelve meridian energies are further organized into 6 which are yang (or contractile) and 6 which are yin (or expansive). The flow of Chi in the yang meridians travels in a descending pathway, from the heavens to the earth; the yin meridians contain ascending energy, traveling from the earth to the heavens. The effect of shiatsu has been explained with a metaphor of the garden hose. As the flow of water through the hose may be constant, applying pressure, bending, or constricting the hose at a certain point will cause the water pressure to build up behind the point of pressure. When that point is released, the water courses through the hose initially with greater speed, dislodging any blockages in its pathway. This idea applies as Shiatsu defines each condition as a manifestation of either a deficiency or an excess of Chi. Unblocking the flow of energy in the meridians serves to either restore strength to an area of energy depletion or to drain off an excess.

The various styles of Shiatsu are far too numberous to give space to all herein. Two forms of Shiatsu for brief consideration are as follows: Five-Element Shiatsu designates Chi as governed by the elemental forces of Water, Wood, Fire, Metal and Earth. Correlation of these five elements and their interactive physiology serves in both evaluation and treatment. Zen Shiatsu incorporates the philosophy of enlightenment through self-knowledge. In Zen Shiatsu, healing is a guided process of self-awareness and discovery.

Shiatsu is most often performed on a futon mat placed on the floor, although it is possible to perform Shiatsu on a massage table. The receiver of shiatsu may wear loose-fitting clothing which will allow for the passive stretching exercises often incorporated into Shiatsu. Typically no creams or oils are used. It is recommended not to eat 1 to 1½ hours before a Shiatsu session. It is advised to consult your physician before receiving Shiatsu in conditions of heart disease, disorders of the circulatory system, cancer, muscular-skeletal injuries, prior to or immediately following surgery, undiagnosed skin conditions and conditions of suppressed immune function. Shiatsu can be extremely beneficial during pregnancy although it is advised to consult your health care provider regarding any possible complications.

For more information see Zen Shiatsu by Shizuto Masunaga and Wataru Ohashi.
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SWEDISH MASSAGE:
Although it may be impossible to trace the very beginnings of massage as a healing practice, the therapeutic bodywork modality of Swedish Massage is nearly 200 years old. In his successful efforts to cure himself of rheumatism, Per Henrik Ling, a fencing master and gymnastics instructor, developed this method of therapeutic bodywork based on the theory that massage is a form of "passive gymnastics". The Royal Gymnastic Central Institute in Stockholm was the first to incorporate "The Ling System" into its curriculum in 1813, after which time Mr. Ling's method became widely accepted throughout Europe. This is why today the most standard form of massage is referred to as Swedish Massage.

Of the many therapeutic benefits of Swedish Massage (SM), perhaps the most evident is the stimulating effect on the circulatory systems of the body. Increasing venous circulation and assisting lymphatic drainage, SM brings warmth and movement to the soft, connective tissues of the body, increasing the range of motion of joints. While releasing adhesions (or "knots") in connective tissue layers, SM may hasten the recovery of stress-related injuries, breaking the pain and spasm cycle of chronic myofascial pain, and to some degree loosening scar tissue. A deep connective tissue approach to SM enhances the proper structural alignment of the skeletal system. Relaxation of respiratory and nervous systems during SM may bring balance to digestive, eliminatory and endocrine functions. Most recipients of SM. experience increased body awareness and general stress reduction.

Swedish massage employs the techniques of stroking, kneading, rubbing, tapping, vibrating (trade jargon: effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration) to achieve its therapeutic benefits. A SM session may include passive exercise techniques in the form of assisted stretching and range of motion exercises. Although individual practitioners may differ in approach, it is customary to use oil or cream to assist in the strokes. SM is most often performed on a massage table. Draping for privacy and warmth as well as bolsters to support the body are used for the client's comfort. It is best to refrain from eating 1 to 1½ hours prior to receiving SM. It is advised to consult your physician before receiving SM in conditions of heart disease, disorders of the circulatory system, cancer, muscular-skeletal injuries, prior to or immediately following surgery, undiagnosed skin conditions and conditions of suppressed immune function. SM can be extremely beneficial during pregnancy although it is advised to consult your health care provider regarding any possible complications.

For more information see Healing Massage Techniques: Holistic, Classic, and Emerging Methods by Frances M. Tappan.
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