Shiatsu and Traditional Chinese Medicine: Meridians, Energy Systems and Therapeutic Applications

Origins and Principles of Shiatsu

Sources: Shiatsu was developed in Japan, drawing on Chinese medicine and the traditional concept of energy flow. Its origins are linked to the work of Tokujiro Namikoshi, who opened the first institute of therapy in 1957 and established the first center for teaching the technique. After his death, his son continued the work, and the practice has been carried on by his family and followers.

The Energy System and Meridians

Energy system: The body is traversed by energy pathways called meridians. These form a network through which vital energy (qi) circulates. Meridians connect the body's surface with its internal organs and are organized in relation to the principles of yin and yang and the five elements.

Tsubo (Acupoints)

Tsubo are specific energetic points located along the meridians. Pressure applied to these points is believed to restore the flow of energy, stimulate the body's self-regulation and rebalance the system. Therapy works through sustained pressure, stretching and movement to mobilize energy and restore equilibrium.

Primary Meridians and Their Functions

• Lung: Governs respiration and the exchange of gases, regulates energy (qi) throughout the body, and controls the skin, body hair and the immune defense (wei qi).
• Spleen and pancreas: Associated with the earth element. Responsible for digestion, the transformation of food into energy and blood, and the maintenance of muscles and tissues. Also linked to the stability of emotions.
• Small intestine and heart: Associated with the fire element. Responsible for the assimilation of nutrients and the circulation of blood.
• Bladder and kidney: Associated with the water element. Responsible for purification, the regulation of fluids, the storage of essential energy (jing), bone health, teeth, hair and growth.
• Pericardium and triple burner: Associated with fire. Protects the heart, regulates the circulatory and lymphatic systems, and controls body temperature.
• Gallbladder and liver: Associated with the wood element. Responsible for the distribution of nutrients, detoxification, the storage of blood and the smooth flow of energy.

Shiatsu Technique

Practitioners apply pressure with the thumbs, palms and fingers, using both hands in a continuous and rhythmic way. The practitioner should maintain a clear and calm mind, apply pressure without force, and work with natural body weight and clear intention. Sessions aim to harmonize the internal energy and support the body's natural balance.

Therapeutic Indications

Shiatsu is traditionally used to support the following conditions:

• Circulatory system: cardiac disorders, hypertension, arteriosclerosis.
• Neurological conditions: hemiplegia, insomnia, neurosis, alopecia areata, migraine.
• Internal organ disorders: diarrhea, constipation, hepatic disorders, gallbladder stones.
• Musculoskeletal system: cervical whiplash, disc herniation, facial paralysis, periarthritis.
• Metabolic and endocrine disorders: diabetes, gout, kidney disorders, menstrual pain and irregularities.
• Sensory organ disorders: sinusitis.
• Respiratory conditions: bronchial asthma.
• Joint and limb conditions: hip dislocation, foot disorders, knee problems, genu varum (bow legs) and genu valgum (knock knees).

Precautions

Before and during menstruation, pregnancy or any treatment session, avoid eating heavy meals, very hot foods or engaging in intense exercise.

Contraindications

Shiatsu should not be applied in cases of: neoplasms (tumors), any contagious disease, appendicitis, pancreatitis, hepatic ulcer, liver cirrhosis, leukemia, intestinal obstruction, high fever, infections, malignant tumors, intoxications or hemorrhage.