Shiatsu Massage Shiatsu is based on the Chinese theory of the circulation of subtle energy, or Chi, through meridians running through and over the body, which govern the internal organs and our entire metabolism. Situated along these meridians are pressure points, the same as those used in Acupuncture, where the therapist can effectively manipulate this energy. Although the foundation of this massage is deep pressure exerted upon these specific localized points, this system also includes a wide variety of stretches, rubbing, hacking and other common massage techniques. It is a somewhat more subtle form of massage since it deals with a higher level of body mechanism, the Chi, versus just the gross physical bones, joints, muscles, that we deal with in western medicine. It can be used as a complete system of health maintenance, or simply for stress reduction, relaxation, and a general improvement of feeling-tone. Unlike Swedish massage, Shiatsu requires the recipient's participation with the therapist in coordinating the breath with the manipulations. It is a quiet and contemplative form of massage having profound results Shiatsu is a system based on the body's energy meridians. Shiatsu massages are normally done fully clothed but can be done disrobed. Shiatsu involves pressing points on the body and stretching and opening of the energy meridians. Shiatsu is sometimes called pressure point therapy and is somewhat related to acupuncture. Shiatsu is a form of acupressure and literally means "finger pressure" in Japanese. Shiatsu has been practiced for thousands of years in Japan. Shiatsu uses rhythmic pressure from four to twelve seconds on specific points along the body's meridians by using the fingers, hands, elbows, knees, and sometimes feet to unblock and stimulate the flow of energy. A session my also include gentle stretching and range-of-motions manipulations. Shiatsu is used to treat pain and illness, to relax the body, and to maintain general health.