When you are getting a massage, you may be asked when booking the appointment what type of massage you would prefer. For those who are uncertain, a basic type of massage using ancient principles is an acupressure massage. It helps to know in advance what the massage entails to ensure that you are signing up for a massage that will be to your liking.
Unblocking Chi
Acupressure is most well known as Shiatsu massage. Similar to acupuncture, it has been used for centuries to aid in healing the body. The concept of healing is based on the Chinese concept of chi, or life energy. Acupressure massage seeks to unblock any areas in the body where the chi is blocked. The idea behind this release is that blocked chi leads to both mental and physical imbalance and illness. Acupressure seeks to re-balance the body so that it can heal naturally.
Trigger Points
Since acupressure is based on acupuncture, you should expect the therapist to unblock chi at specific points on your body. These points, called trigger points, exist at the neck, in your arms and torso and your legs and back. You may feel a release when these trigger points are massaged. Not all trigger points are able to be released, or can be released. And some points may make you feel ticklish, depending on the stroke the massage therapist uses.
Stroke Types
Acupressure uses a variety of strokes. Firm pressure is common. It should not, however, be painful. The therapist uses her thumbs, elbows, sides of her hands and knuckles. She will often begin gently and then press more firmly, often holding the pressure for an extended period of time in hopes of releasing the trigger point. Slow motion kneading is similar to kneading the dough when making bread. It is used most often on the larger muscles to relax them. Brisk rubbing helps improve blood flow and can aid the lymphatic system. Quick tapping using either a finger on tender areas, such as the face, or a fist on larger areas, such as the buttocks, help awaken the muscle and improve nerve function.
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