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Shiatsu Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shiatsu

[ʃiˈɑːtsu ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

massage therapy

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage that uses finger pressure on acupuncture points. It aims to promote energy flow and balance in the body, leading to relaxation and well-being. Shiatsu is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles and is often used to alleviate various ailments.

Synonyms

Japanese massage, acupressure.

Examples of usage

  • She enjoyed a relaxing shiatsu session at the wellness center.
  • After a long day, he found relief through shiatsu therapy.
  • Many practitioners recommend shiatsu for stress management.
  • Shiatsu techniques can be learned and practiced at home.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Shiatsu became popular in Japan during the early 20th century, partly due to the influence of Western massage techniques.
  • In 1955, shiatsu was officially recognized as a form of therapy in Japan, which helped it gain wider acceptance.

Health and Wellness

  • Shiatsu is believed to enhance health by balancing the body's energy, akin to acupuncture but without needles.
  • Many practitioners emphasize its benefits for relieving tension and improving overall well-being.

Cultural Impact

  • In Japan, shiatsu can be found not only in massage therapy clinics but also in wellness centers and traditional spas.
  • The popularity of shiatsu has spread beyond Japan, influencing massage practices and holistic health approaches worldwide.

Modern Practice

  • Shiatsu techniques may vary, but they generally include pressing, kneading, and stretching the body.
  • Today, shiatsu is practiced in various styles and integrated with other healing modalities, such as yoga and aromatherapy.

Origin of 'shiatsu'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Shiatsu' comes from Japanese, where 'shi' means finger and 'atsu' means pressure.
  • The practice was developed in Japan but incorporates techniques from traditional Chinese medicine.

The term 'shiatsu' is derived from the Japanese words 'shi' (finger) and 'atsu' (pressure), which accurately describes the technique of using fingers to apply pressure to specific points on the body. This practice has roots in ancient Chinese medicine and was influenced by the development of various healing techniques throughout history. In the early 20th century, shiatsu was developed as a standardized form of therapy by Tokujiro Namikoshi, who created a systematic approach to this method. Since then, shiatsu has grown not only in popularity within Japan but also internationally, being embraced for its holistic approach to health and well-being. Today, shiatsu is widely regarded as a therapeutic practice that helps with relaxation, pain relief, and overall health.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,357, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.