by Artisttia Yarns

Created on: April 07, 2009   Last Updated: April 15, 2009

Shiatsu facial massage offers a myriad of physical and psychological benefits. These benefits range from the relief of pain to improved mental health. Originating in Japan, the Japanese have practiced the art and science of Shiatsu massage for over 2000 years.

What is Shiatsu Massage?

Shiatsu massage, be it on the face or elsewhere on the body, is performed through the application of gentle pressure on the skin and structures beneath. Some would classify this as a form of acupressure, or needless acupuncture. Using the fingers, thumbs, and palms this pressure is applied along certain pathways, or what the Japanese refer to as meridians. This is to increase the flow of "Qi" (vital energy) throughout the body.

In order to better comprehend Shiatsu Facial Massage, it helps to try to wrap your mind around the concepts of the Qi and meridians. The idea of meridians and Qi are foreign concepts to the western mind. Perhaps, this will help. Roughly speaking, the blood because it transports vital substances to the cells of our body would by the Qi. Meridians can be thought of as lines on the body which correspond to the body's nervous system.

What Happens during a Shiatsu Facial Massage?

The massage therapist will position you on your back while you are lying down. Those with allergies need not fear; no massage oil is used on the skin. With gentle circular strokes are applied on the face and the neck region. This helps restore the flow of energy and correct imbalances within the skin. Toxins trapped in the muscles and the fatty tissues beneath the surface of the skin are released. Then the body is able to remove this waste. This helps in strengthening the body's natural immune system. This is one of the many healthful benefits that the massage provides.

What are the Physical Health Benefits of the Shiatsu Facial Massage?

*Pain relief

The amounts of tension that are stored particular areas of the body can and do cause pain. One of the benefits of a Shiatsu facial massage is relief of that pain. During the massage, particular attention is paid to the facial areas where stress is typically held. Stress is often held around the mandibular joint (jaw bone) and in the temples. At the conclusion of the massage, the neck (cervical spine or C-spine) is worked on to relieve the stress held there.

Often times, people believe they are having a migraine when in actuality they are having a tension headache or cluster headaches. The relaxation this therapy affords, along with increased blood

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