How To Give A Japanese Full Body Massage

Learning how to give a Japanese full body massage involves learning the traditional Shiatsu technique. A Japanese massage consists of relaxing finger pressure that promote significant relief from body aches and promotes relaxation of the body and senses as it uses the Chi energy that is flowing in the body to produce these effects.

You will need:

• Comfortable mat
• Massage oil
• Clean towel for draping

1. Prepare the receiver to lie down on a comfortable mat placed on the floor. A Japanese full massage involves the use of finger and palm pressure along the energy pathway in the body called meridians. It is important to expose the body parts where to apply the pressure thus it is necessary for the receiver to undress. Proper draping with a clean towel should be observed, exposing only the specific area to be massaged. In some cases, Japanese massage can be done even with the clothes on but it is less comfortable than having the massage naked.
2. Apply lubricants using massage oil. This will help decrease the friction allowing the smooth movement of the thumbs to glide along the pressure points. Use the fingers, thumbs, and palms to apply pressure in a rhythmic sequence. The use of finger pads gives a more localized therapeutic effect, concentrating the pressure along acupuncture meridians.
3. Hold each pressure about two to eight seconds. This is essential to improve the energy flow into the body as well as to aid the body regain its balance better. Each pressure should be firm but should not produce pain. This is believed to help stimulate the body in enhancing its own healing capacity.
4. Start from the upper areas of the body particularly on the shoulders and move down to the lower body areas. Make sure to be gentle on the pressure applied keeping in mind to massage not the skin but the muscles.
5. Allow the receiver to rest after the Japanese massage. This will allow the muscle to return to its relaxed state. It will also help the blood flow in the body to return to normal.