Shiatsu Massager Benefits & What You Need to Know About Them

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Written by Mia Jozipovic

Are you tired of dealing with stubborn knots and muscle tension? Say hello to Shiatsu massage! This ancient Japanese practice has been soothing bodies for centuries.

Its specific hands-on technique uses finger pressure to unlock blocked energy and promote healing in the body. 

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But don’t worry, you don’t need a trip to Tokyo to experience the magic of Shiatsu massage. Thanks to modern technology, Shiatsu massagers are now within your hand reach. These great tools could get the relief you crave from the comfort of your own home.

Key Takeaway

The Japanese therapy, Shiatsu is believed to harmonize and stimulate the flow of the body’s energy, Qi. Shiatsu massagers apply pressure to specific acupressure points using rotating nodes or balls. They follow a particular pathway, imitating the hand movements of a human masseuse.

Let’s be honest with the possibilities.

The Benefits of Shiatsu Massage

Say Goodbye to Stress and Tension

Shiatsu massage is more than a feel-good experience. It purports to have a kind of power to positively influence your mental health. To ease stress and anxiety, help you feel more focused and balanced. 

Shiatsu therapy can also have a positive impact on sleep quality and reduced feelings of depression

Imagine sinking into a state of deep relaxation, while the gentle pressure melts away your muscle tension. That is supposed to be what happens and it may well do.

Relieve Muscle Stiffness and Soreness

Several factors can cause muscle stiffness, such as exercise, injury, musculoskeletal disorders, autoimmune diseases, or even insect bites.

A deep pressure in Shiatsu massage can effectively ease muscle stiffness and soreness, aiding in a faster recovery.

Improve Circulation and Reduce Inflammation

Shiatsu like many types of massage can help improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage.

By stimulating the system’s pathways, it can increase the movement of blood and make it circulate more efficiently.

Shiatsu massagers can also boost blood flow in people with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), potentially improving inflammation and healing in the body.

Boost Your Energy and Vitality

Have you heard about “Qi”? 

In Chinese, Japanese and other East Asian cultures, Qi is believed to be the vital energy that fuels our bodies. The very essence of life itself.

Shiatsu therapy harmonizes and stimulates the flow of Qi. And when the Qi is in balance, it is said to promote good health and proper bodily functions

You can totally unwind and recharge with the healing power of Shiatsu massage. By stimulating the energy flow in your body, it revitalizes your body and sharpens your mind. 

Experience a Deep Sense of Relaxation and Balance

I like to say that Shiatsu massage is like hitting the reset button for your muscles and hormones. 

It helps to release toxins and deeply rooted tension from the muscles, promoting a sense of calmness and well-being.

Shiatsu massagers can be a great self-massage tool to have at home. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience after a hard day?

Let’s admit it, it’s something we all need from time to time.

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Just a heads up –  I recently wrote a blog post about the benefits of using massagers. Be sure to check it out.

Shiatsu Massagers At Work

Shiatsu massage originated in Japan and was based on ancient Chinese beliefs. There is no medical evidence that a Shiatsu massage will cure any illness but proponents of this particular massage see it as an holistic approach viewing the body as a network of energy pathways or “meridians”. 

A Shiatsu masseuse will target specific points on the body to “unblock and stimulate energy pathways”. A self-applied massager tool could be used for the same affect.

  • They use a combination of rolling and kneading motions to provide a soothing massage experience.
  • The rolling motion helps to stretch and compress the muscles.
  • The kneading motion targets tension and stiffness, helping to release them for a more relaxed feeling.

It basically just makes you feel good and relaxed. So what’s not to like?

Choosing a Shiatsu Massager?

If you think the Shiatsu massager is just another indulgent spa treatment, think again. I experienced the magic of this tool, so I can attest that it goes beyond relaxation and luxury.

But before you rush out to go shopping, here are some things to keep in mind when purchasing a Shiatsu massager:

Size and Shape

If you’re looking for a good massage, don’t just think about the function of the device. Size and shape matter too! 

For instance, to relieve neck and shoulder tension, consider a compact device that can fit around those areas for optimal relief.

This article includes affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of the products we’ve discussed in this article, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost.

And if you want to massage your back, opt for a chair or cushion type so that you can completely relax while the massager does its job.

Consider something like this:

Finally, don’t forget to show some love to your legs and feet. Choose Shiatsu massagers that fit the contours of those body parts. They should feature a curved shape to better accommodate the arch of the foot or the curve of the calf.

This article includes affiliate links. If you choose to purchase any of the products we’ve discussed in this article, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost.

Here’s a great 2-in-1 option:

If you’re curious about the incredible benefits that foot massagers can offer, click here and you’ll find some really interesting facts.

Massage Intensity and Settings

Different Shiatsu massagers offer different levels of massage intensity. Some even offer adjustable settings to customize your massage experience. 

Consider a gentle massager with low intensity if you have delicate skin or bruise easily. And for a deep-tissue massage experience, opt for a device that affords a higher intensity.

It’s also super important to consider the operational features of your Shiatsu massager before making a purchase. 

How long can it work continuously? Does it have automatic settings or require manual input? 

These settings can make all the difference in your overall experience, so it’s worth exploring them in detail.

Heat Therapy Options

Heat therapy can be a beneficial addition to your Shiatsu massage routine. As mentioned earlier, even if a Shiatsu massage isn’t a cure-all, it can improve blood circulation and alleviate tension. 

And if you choose a massager with a heat option, the warmth can further promote healing and reduce inflammation. 

Portability and Convenience

For the busy bees who are always on the go, having a massager that’s easily portable is essential. That’s where convenience and portability come in handy.

When looking for a Shiatsu massager, consider its weight and ease of transport. A lightweight and easy-to-carry massager can make all the difference! It can keep your muscles relaxed and tension-free no matter where you go.

Over To You

Although many people swear by a Shiatsu massage to cure ailments like headaches and digestive problems I would suggest that the ancient Chinese origins of “paths of energy lines” and natural energy balance” is not credible with the scientific understanding we have today.

However, there’s no doubt that an all-body rub down is always going to be a welcome experience to improve circulation, reduced stress and tension, and have an overall sense of well-being. And with these Shiatsu massagers you can have it all without having to leave the comfort of your home. Even though some look like a horse collar.

Give it a try! I’m sure you’ll love it!

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I'm Mia, a 25-year-old fitness enthusiast who's on a mission to help people look and feel amazing. I live and breathe health and wellness, and you can often find me in the gym, trying out new recipes in the kitchen, or exploring the great outdoors. I love pushing myself to new limits and inspiring others to do the same.

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