by Kimberley Heit

Created on: April 12, 2009   Last Updated: March 07, 2011

Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese therapy that dates back at least a century. It involves the use of acupressure style finger movements that balance the flow of energy along the meridian lines in the body. The face is linked to many meridians that are connected to organs that govern optimum health and well being. This makes a shiatsu facial massage a holistic treatment that is beneficial on many different levels.

A shiatsu facial massage does not require the use of oil and it is typically safe during pregnancy. Some of the most common benefits include:

Pain relief

A shiatsu facial massage is a drug free way to help ease certain types of pain. When the temple points are stimulated they can bring relief from headaches and migraines. The point midway between the eyes brings relief from toothache and also aids headaches and migraines.

Digestion

The meridian points for the stomach, large intestine and small intestine are located principally in the face and front of the neck. This means that a shiatsu facial massage can help unblock any blockages that might be causing problems in the digestive system. This can bring relief to problems like irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and flatulence.

Sinus problems

When the outside borders of the nose are stimulated correctly they assist in opening up the blood vessels and therefore the sinus passages. This aids many sinus problems like sinus pain, congestion, a stuffy nose and allergies.

A workout for the complexion

A shiatsu facial massage increases circulation to the face, which increases the blood supply to the skin and encourages the removal of toxins. Increasing the blood supply to the skin aids the supply of nutrition and improves skin tone. When toxins are adequately extracted from the skin the pores are left clear and the skin appears unblemished.

A shiatsu facial massage is a good anti ageing tool because it helps to relax the muscles of the face preventing tension lines and wrinkles. It also provides a face lift action that helps maintain muscle tone.

Puffiness and dark eye circles can be reduced with a shiatsu facial massage. Puffy eyes are typically caused by a build up of fluid. Shiatsu movements can help relieve fluid retention. Dark under eye circles are a result of leakage in the tiny capillaries beneath the eyes. The skin in this region is very thin so this can result in dark marks on the surface of the skin. Regular shiatsu treatments improve circulation and can therefore diminish the appearance of dark under eye circles.

Lymphatic drainage

A shiatsu facial massage is not only beneficial to the removal of toxins in the face region; it can help with this process throughout the entire body. The successful elimination of toxins and fluids can reduce inflammation and swelling.

A shiatsu facial massage is also a great stress reliever and overall relaxing experience. An experienced practitioner may be able to restore energy balances that you weren't even aware were blocked. This can lead to more energy, radiance and vitality.

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