The pressure is said to improve the flow of chi, conferring general relaxation and balance. During a typical session, the practitioner will travel the length of each meridian applying thumb pressure to points along the way. While the practitioner prods the acupressure points, he or she will transfer some personal chi to the patient. Shiatsu is meant to treat the whole body, but proponents claim it can be effective in treating specific ailments. For example, applying pressure to the web area between the thumb and forefinger is said to be a remedy for a headache.
Shiatsu training is part of some massage therapy training and certification programs.
Reflexology Reflexology involves the manipulation of specific areas on the feet, and sometimes the hands, with the goal of bringing the body into homeostasis, or balance. The arrangement of reflexology areas on the feet mirrors the organization of the body, to the extent that organs on the right side of the body are represented on the right foot, and the same with the left side and foot. Reflexology features a few basic techniques that can be performed either by you or by a partner. The finger technique uses the same walking motion but with the edge of the index finger closest to the thumb. When working a specific area, one hand should work and the other should hold the foot in a comfortable position with the sole flat and toes straight.