Based on principles of traditional Chinese medicine, Shiatsu massage originated in Japan in the early 20th century. Unlike some traditional forms of massage that predate Shiatsu, the practice incorporated some Western and other holistic therapies.
The practice of Shiatsu itself involves using fingers — the word translates from the Japanese to mean "finger pressure" — as well as hands, elbows, knees and even feet on points across a patient's body. Shiatsu is deeply relaxing, but it also helps treat many health problems, along with their underlying causes.