Shiatsu is a form of physical manipulation that was developed in Japan in the 20th century. Its origin comes from ancient Chinese techniques, Do-In and anma. Do-In is very similar to yoga, while anma resembles more Western massage. These two techniques are the oldest forms of medical treatment in the Orient.
The ancient Chinese physicians believed strongly that “a superior healer is one who treats a disease before it shows symptoms, while an inferior [healer] treats a disease only after it has manifested pain or discomfort” (Inner Classic of the Yellow Emperor, 100 B.C.). They proposed that traditional Chinese medicine was first developed and used as a preventative measure. There are four types of TCM
(traditional Chinese medicine) treatment: acupuncture, herbs, moxa and anma (massage).
Translated literally, “shiatsu” means finger pressure. In shiatsu massage, the aim is to remove the obstacles that block the flow of energy through the meridians of the body. It also seeks to restore the balance in this flow of energy through the removal of these obstacles and the restoration of balance in the body on the acupoints, also known as pressure points, along the meridians of the body. The shiatsu therapist also manipulates the areas adjacent to these pressure points to further stimulate the body’s capacity for healing and to enhance the feeling of wellness.
When the body is imbalanced, it causes the immune system to become weak and vulnerable to contracting diseases. If an individual experiences a loss of energy, that is an indication that the body is weakening, its organs are losing their ability to function properly and the tissues of the body are slowly failing. So the Qi (energy) flow loses its capabilities to flow as freely. The massage therapist will be able to assist in completing the process to boost the immune system in the body by using the fingers, thumbs, palms and feet to apply pressure and massage the areas that are most deeply affected, using massage techniques that include rubbing, squeezing and tapping in order to release the blocked energy in the body.
Balance can only be achieved by allowing flexibility and change to occur both physically and emotionally. Consequently, a greater range of physical motion, as well as the ability to experience a broader spectrum of emotions, may result.
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Shiatsu offers an opportunity to become aware of the way in which we inhabit our bodies. Through understanding breathing patterns, posture and mental attitude, the practitioner and the client can begin to uncover the root cause of disease, be it mental or physical, and remedy it through massage.
Susan Farkas, O.M.D, LMT, specializes in the prevention and treatment of disease through the use of natural, non-invasive therapies. She is a graduate of the acupuncture program at Medicin College of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Israel and a certified Chinese herbalist and Shiatsu therapist. She completed the clinical studies in the departments of Acupuncture, Massage, TCM Internal Medicine at the Hangzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Zhenjiang province in the Republic of China, and also graduated as a massage therapist from Educating Hands School of Massage in Miami. Her vision is to improve the wellness of individuals through education and motivation, addressing lifestyles, nutrition and fitness. To book a session with Susan Farkas, call Om’echaye, 954.456.6945, 1100 E. Hallandale Beach Blvd., Hallandale.
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