The Story behind Shiatsu massage
Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese massage therapy with roots in Chinese medicine. Its history traces back over a thousand years, evolving from ancient Chinese techniques. The term “shiatsu” means “finger pressure” in Japanese, highlighting the practice’s emphasis on applying pressure to specific points on the body. Nowaday it is not only with the thumbs, but also by using elbows and nees to acces the meridians (Energy lines)
In the early 20th century, Tokujiro Namikoshi formalized and standardized Shiatsu as a distinct therapy. He founded the first Shiatsu school in 1925 in Japan. Namikoshi’s approach focused on blending Western anatomical knowledge with traditional Japanese and Chinese techniques. Over time, Shiatsu gained recognition globally as a holistic therapy promoting physical and emotional well-being through pressure and stretches.
For this style style of massage, the recipient is usually clothed and laying on a low massage table or comfortable pad on the floor.
At the World Championship in Massage Shiatsu will be under the Freestyle Massage Category. Read more about the categories here.
At the 2019 World Championship in Massage, the overall massage champion became Mario De Sousa known for his Shiatsu given on a Chair. Watch er wonderful video with him here:
- Text by Jeppe Tengbjerg
Did you like the article? Or did you like taking part of the World Championship in Massage or one of our classes, then please feel free to give us a nice review on Google.
Read more articles and watch amazing videos on the International Massage Associations WhatsApp and Telegram Channels.
Sign up for the World Championship in Massage here.
Find your next IMA Masterclass here.
Read more about the IMA Teacher classes here.
Please follow the IMA Social Medias: Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, TikTok, Telegram Channel, Whatsapp Channel, Threads, X, Linkedin
The International Massage Association also offer Masterclasses for Massage Therapists and Massage Teachers.