Prolonged periods of stress can subconsciously affect many systems of the body. Stress has been shown to aggravate, or even cause, conditions such as heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, memory loss and decrease the immune system. Headaches can commonly result due to neck and shoulder tension, which can cause a decrease in circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues.
Shiatsu helps to relax the mind, body, and spirit, providing time and space for self, and a feeling of peace, calm and well-being. It allows the nervous system to normalize itself which may reduce many stress-related conditions such as palpitations and raised blood pressure.
With a therapeutic Shiatsu massage, stress can be significantly reduced. This, in turn, will increase energy and improve outlook on life.
When sustained stress is experienced, the brain responds in a manner known as “fight or flight”. This signals the sympathetic nervous system, which is controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain. Muscles tighten in our neck, shoulders and back, blood vessels constrict, eyes dilate, large amounts of energy are expended as the adrenal glands excrete hormones.
Shiatsu breaks this cycle by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system (the body’s way of conserving and restoring energy). Stretching and kneading releases tight muscles and natural endorphins. This results in decreased pain, decreased heart rate and a sense of calm. When combined with conventional medical treatments it can help reduce the symptoms of stress and promote healing in people with certain health conditions.
Shiatsu and acupressure techniques are therapeutic in addressing chronic muscle and soft tissue strain patterns created by stress. It helps align the muscles and soft tissues of the body by using a combination of specialized techniques.
Do you need calming & grounding ?
Place the centre of your palm, or your thumb, gently on the area between your eyebrows. Hold steady light pressure on the area for one minute or so, breath steadily into your abdomen.
Hindi culture considers this acupressure point to be in the location of your third eye, which is thought to stabilise your mental outlook.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine this point is also known as YIN TANG, the Hall Of Impressions.
Using this acu-point may relieve symptoms caused by stress, anxiety, insomnia, allergies and sinus pain.
You can include this point with another just on the hair line – GV24 – also helpful in relieving frontal headaches, anxiety, insomnia and also calming ! Work your way between the two points with your thumbs using light pressure.
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