Modern day seated Acupressure, also referred to as on-site or chair massage, is a hybrid of the ancient Oriental massage arts of Anma and Shiatsu.
It is a meridian based therapy in which thumb, finger, elbow and knuckle pressure are used over many of the acupressure points on the 12 major meridians accessible on the back, arms, hands, neck, head and legs.
This technique helps to stimulate and balance the flow of energy or life-force throughout the body. In turn this stimulates the circulatory, muscular, nervous, immune and lymphatic systems whilst promoting the release of endorphins and important mood-regulating neurotransmitters. The client is left feeling good in a relaxed, but energised way and in a clearly focused frame of mind.
Traditionally, the basic sequence that is taught lasts no more than 20 minutes,which makes Seated Acupressure the ideal modality for the busy workplace environment where employees benefit from this quick, dynamic de-stressing therapy and can return to their desks buzzing with energy.
The length of treatment may be extended or reduced by increasing or reducing the number of repetitions accordingly.
The clever, ergonomic design of an easily portable chair completely supports the clients body in total comfort, allowing the practitioner easy access to the clients acupressure points without removal of clothing or the use of oils. As a result, in many of today’s busiest environments such as airports, shopping malls, spas and fitness centres, seated acupressure practitioners can be found practising their fluid, choreographed sequence or ‘kata’ on a grateful and willing public.
Throughout the last decade, increasing numbers of people have benefitted from this amazingly effective therapy which is one of the fastest growing in the Complementary Therapy Industry.
Many corporations and businesses are now encouraging their staff to take a twenty-minute break to experience the relaxing benefits of on-site massage. Clients report that after seated acupressure they feel energised and refreshed.
Seated acupressure massage is a gentle and non-invasive so it is suitable for everyone.
Benefits of Seated Acupressure Massage
- Improves backache
- Repetitive strain injury
- Asthma
- Headaches
- Migraines
- Toothache
- Fatigue
- Sinus problems
- Menstrual pain
- Digestive problems
- Eyestrain
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Stimulates lymphatic drainage
- Helps to boost the immune system
- Assists the removal of toxins
- Can reduce stiffness and improve flexibility
Seated Acupressure Massage Contra-Indications
It is advisable for clients to have eaten something (though not a heavy meal) before treatment, otherwise there is a possibility of fainting.
The following are totally contraindicated
- The first three months of pregnancy or if there are any complications beyond this
- Under the influence of alcohol or recreational drugs
- Fever, diarrhoea or vomiting
Doctors consent obtained with the following
- Anyone that has had a recent accident e.g whiplash or concussion
- Suffering from severe arthritis (early stages are OK)
- Hypertension or hypotension (very high or very low blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- Heart conditions
- Undergone a recent operation (within the last three months)
- Haemophilia
- Cancer
- They suffer from fragile bones or have osteoporosis or similar condition
- Recent strains or sprains affecting mobility
- Care should be taken and massage avoided over localised areas of contagious skin conditions, eczema, localised swelling or bruising
- Epilepsy
Information provided by Gateway Workshops Ltd