For some people, massage has become less of an indulgence then as a key component of an overall health regimen. The ability of a daily, frequent massage to reduce stress and remedy various physical ailments has convinced many to incorporate a massage chair into their everyday activities. For many individuals, the ability to feel their best has become a reachable priority through the use of a private massage chair.

The art of massage offered by massage chairs takes many forms. Typically, most quality chairs will incorporate a mixture of some form of Swedish massage and a deeper tissue massage style. These varied techniques are specifically designed to invigorate muscles by influencing increased blood flow to certain areas as well as relieving particular problems. Applying this type of massage involves long, rhythmic strokes and kneading to mimic the movements of the hands, palms and fingers. What results from this strategy is physical relaxation, circulation improvement and less mental stress.

In addition to the other massage settings found in massage chairs, Shiatsu massage is also an extremely effective form of massage. Yet it possesses a somewhat metaphysical justification to support the technique.

Shiatsu is a Japanese word that translates to “finger pressure.” The goal of Shiatsu is to restore the balance of energy in the body. Proponents of Shiatsu believe that disease and physical ailments are caused by blockages in the flow of energy through the body. This energy that flows through the body along channels is called “ki.” Practitioners strive for a balance between Yin (negative energy) and Yang (positive energy).

Shiatsu works in an opposite fashion than does Swedish massage (the typical massage most people are aware of). Instead of the rubbing and kneading technique of Swedish massage, Shiatsu settings on massage chairs locate a particular point along one of the body’s meridians and apply pressure to that area. This attempts to restore balance to the flow of energy. The pressure can be applied gently with the finger-like mechanisms of the massage chair or may be applied forcefully mimicking the point of the elbow depending on the location of the meridian and the blockage. A quality massage chair will also incorporate stretching, holding or rotating various parts of the body.

Restoring the proper balance of “ki” through Shiatsu technique is viewed as spiritual in addition to the physical benefits. The balanced flow of energy provides physical comfort and improved health as well as emotional stability and spiritual well being. In fact, it is not uncommon for a recipient of Shiatsu massage to experience a forceful emotional response as energy is discharged from trouble areas and restored to appropriate levels.

Shiatsu massage is an extremely relaxing and healing form of massage. It is satisfying to know that besides feeling better, the Shiatsu experience that best massage chair can provide can place us back in balance with the universal energy flow.