Japanese massage is basically any type of massage that originates from Japan. There are basically two types of massages that originate from Japan: Kobido and Shiatsu. However, combining different oriental techniques results in different variations.
However, these techniques don’t necessarily originate from Japan. There is also the anma massage technique that originated from traditional Chinese medicine. However, this technique was perfected in Japan and gained the current popularity that it has.
The Main Types of Japanese Massages
There are three main types of Japanese massages. One of them is aesthetic while two are therapeutic. Top on the list is the Shiatsu massage. It is an ancient method that has a therapeutic function. It is used in treating the entire body including at the energetic level.
The second Japanese oil massage is what is referred to as Anma. Even though it originated in China, the technique was perfected in Japan and it performs the therapeutic function. This type of massage, and also ampuku energy therapy from Japan are the origin of Shiatsu.
The other type of Japanese massage is Kobido. It has aesthetic functions and has been in use for so many years. It is very good for rejuvenating the face skin. Prof. Shogo Mochizuki, in 1984, emigrated to the USA and began to use this technique. It had a great level of success and he also popularized it in the West.
The Characteristics of Japanese Massage
The characteristics and methods of application of the three types of Japanese massages are different. That is why it is good to look at the characteristic of each of them:
Shiatsu
The use of pressure characterizes this Japanese massage. It normally uses thumbs, with gentle or moderate-intensity in the target areas. The individual has to either lie on a stretcher or a tatami mat.
It makes use of the elbows, hand, and to a lower extent the knees. In the shiatsu massage, the pressure is done at a similar point to the acupuncture in the Chinese medication for activating energy.
Anma
This technique is very influential on Shiatsu. It also works on energetic meridians even though the message gets seated on a particular chair in this particular case. The technique is performed with pressure, manipulation, percussion, and stretching on the vital stages of energy. It reduces the negative effects of daily stresses on the mind and body and rebalances their circulation.
Kobido
This massage was traditionally designed to work on the face of the meridians. It was used to balance the facial muscles and the skin Qi. The main purpose of the massage is to rejuvenate the skin and improve its health.
Kobido is applied on the neck, scalp, and face with massages combined with percussion movements together with massages that act on the person’s subcutaneous muscles. It removes toxins, facilitates circulation, oxygenates the skin, and leads to the production of elastin and collagen.
Benefits of Japan Massage
There are so many benefits that come with Japanese massage. All these benefits revolve around the therapeutic and aesthetic value of massages. Therefore, you will choose a massage type depending on the kind of benefits that you are looking for.
In summary, massage therapy will help you to relieve stress, and feel relaxed and clear-minded. To be clear, here are the top 10 pros of the Japan massage to your body.
Manage Depression and Anxiety
Japanese massage tends to reduce the level of cortisol which is a stress hormone. It in turn boosts the production of dopamine and serotonin. You end up feeling a less stressful mood, happier and reduced blood pressure.
Ease Pain
So many people experience back pain at certain points in life. One of the best ways to reduce pain and stiffness is taking a Japanese massage. This treatment also goes a long way in increasing the range of motion. It is also good for other effective treatments like yoga, exercise, acupuncture, and medications.
Improves Sleep
There is a good reason as to why most individuals doze off while on the massage table. This exercise increases delta waves which are brain waves that are linked to deep sleep.
Boosts Immunity
Massages are also very effective at enhancing the functioning of the immune system. Japanese massage reduces cortisol which destroys the natural killer cells and boosts the immune cells of the body.
Beat PMS
Massages do lessen PMS symptoms such as cravings, mood swings, and bloating. All these are good at enhancing the functioning of the body.
Stop Headaches
Massages stop both tension headaches and pain. When you get a Japanese oil massage every day, it will reduce the number of migraines that you get overtime and limit the intensity of pain of each migraine.
Prolongs the Youthful Glow
Massages increase the flow of blood and this encourages toxins to leave your body cells and nutrients to get in. Regularly rubbing down normally makes a very big difference in the hair and body complexion.
Eases Painful Medical treatments
If you are undergoing a serious ailment like cancer, you will find the Japanese massage to be of great use to you. This massage has the ability to relieve nausea, depression, anxiety, pain, and fatigue among cancer patients.
Eases Pregnancy Pain
If you are under pregnancy, you will find the Japanese oil massage to be of great use to you. It is wise to go for regular prenatal massages as this does not only eases the pain but also makes easier and shorter labor.
Leads to a Healthy Heart
Last on our list of the benefits of Japanese massage is the fact that it enhances the health of the heart. These massages produce vasodilation which increases the venous return hence enhancing the flow of blood and oxygen delivery in all the body organs.
It relaxes the whole cardiovascular system and improves circulation in the entire body. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system and this helps in regulating the heart rate and blood pressure.
Conclusion
There are so many benefits that come with Japanese massage. The most important thing is to have a professional carry out this exercise. It will leave you feeling fresher and more relaxed all the time.
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