PRACTITIONER VOICE
Unleashing Wellness :
Shiatsu and the Healing Power of Therapeutic Touch
Jason Chong | BHSc ( Chinese Medicine ), Diplomate of Canonical Chinese Medicine , Diploma of Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies , Diploma of Traditional Chinese Medicine Remedial Massage ( An Mo Tui Na )
Photo by Shiva Smyth
Abstract
This article explores the healing power of Shiatsu massage and therapeutic touch . It argues that in our modern , isolated world , practices like Shiatsu help dismantle barriers and foster meaningful human connections . Shiatsu derives from traditional Japanese massage and incorporates principles of Traditional East Asian Medicine . It focuses on the flow of vital energy or Ki in the body . Gentle pressure and movement in Shiatsu aim to restore this energy balance . The article examines the multidimensional benefits of touch . On a neuroscientific level , touch activates brain regions that regulate physiological processes and the nervous system . Psychologically , touch enhances wellbeing , childhood development , and relationships by triggering positive emotions and hormone release . The context of touch affects individual perceptions and outcomes . The article emphasizes touch as an antidote to disconnection , making it vital for practitioners to provide in the post-pandemic era . Shiatsu promotes holistic wellness by reconnecting us to our physical , emotional , and spiritual essence through therapeutic touch . It reminds us that we are part of a larger whole . Shiatsu ’ s blend of Eastern medicine and therapeutic touch enhances its healing abilities . It can ease conditions like chronic pain and boost immunity while reducing stress and anxiety . The simplicity of touch underscores empathy and human connection in healing . Incorporating Shiatsu in our lives can involve receiving professional treatment and practising self-Shiatsu . Mindfulness of touch in daily activities is encouraged . Shiatsu therapy promotes overall wellness beyond symptom treatment .
Introduction
Today , we live in a world where rules of engagement have shifted . During COVID-19 restrictions physical distance became our shield , with a distance of 6-feet mandated between each other . Clear plastic barriers separated us , masks hid our emotions , and throat clearing made us nervous . Now we observe that the effects of these responses continue to linger as we move onwards from the height of pandemic anxiety .
It is within this climate of separation that the true importance of therapeutic touch and practices like Shiatsu come to light . This deeply intimate , almost spiritual , practice aims to dismantle those artificially imposed barriers .
Amid the isolation that we experience in the modern world , this is a way for us to create a deeper and more meaningful human connection . By doing so , we can cultivate intimacy and forge a pathway that counters the prevailing isolation . This pathway can lead to the fulfilling and profound human connection that we have been longing for .
But why is touch so therapeutic ? It ’ s simple . Touch is our first language . Long before we can see , speak or understand , we communicate and connect through touch . It is a primal , essential part of our existence . And when used therapeutically , it can work wonders to reconnect us with
156 | vol29 | no3 | JATMS