Asian Massage Therapy and Oriental Medicine

Asian massage therapy derives from ancient oriental holistic healing practices, and can range from Shiatsu massage to Acupressure. Many practitioners of Oriental medicine prescribe massage therapy, Acupuncture, and Acupressure for patients as a way to treat illness and give the body the tools it needs to heal itself. Oriental medicine has always maintained a tradition of holistic healing, that is, rejuvenation and restoration of the mind and spirit, as well as the physical body.

Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu is a specific method of Japanese massage therapy, but also incorporates various methods and techniques from traditional Chinese medicine, Western physiology, and holistic healing beliefs. Massage therapists trained in Shiatsu massage typically use only their fingers, thumbs, and palms to detect stiffness and muscle tension. Although elements of Shiatsu massage are combined with Oriental medicine as a treatment plan, clients also choose Shiatsu as a self-directed treatment, or simply for its therapeutic benefits. Throughout the East, Shiatsu remains a commonly requested Spa and therapeutic treatment.

The Shiatsu massage session typically lasts for one hour, and the client usually wears loose fitting clothing while lying on a mat. A massage therapist using Shiatsu massage will also incorporate stretching and rocking motions to increase joint mobility and ease muscle tension.

Many massage schools offer Shiatsu massage training as a specialized approach to massage therapy. There are also massage programs that cater specifically to students interested in studying Asian massage therapy, with courses that tend to focus on holistic healing and alternative medicine. These massage programs also focus on the principles of Oriental medicine.

Thai Massage

Although Thai massage dates back over 2,500 years, it is considered a relatively new form of massage therapy in most Western spas. It is also a holistic practice, as therapists using Thai massage seek to rejuvenate the mind and spirit as well as the body. Thai massage differs from Shiatsu massage in that the therapist will use his or her entire body (including feet, elbows, etc.) to complete the massage. The client is usually fully clothed in loose fitting clothing, and lies on a mat on the floor.

If you are interested in applying massage schools that focus on Asian massage therapy and Oriental medicine, or any other massage program covering the components of therapeutic massage and holistic healing, our directory is a great place to start to find the school that best fits your needs. Or call us today at 1.888.281.2822 to take advantage of our free consultation service.